Childbirth

Childbirth often starts with contractions or fluid coming out of the vagina. The contractions become longer and more frequent. The birth ends with you pushing the baby out through your vagina. Childbirth can take anywhere from a few hours to a few days.

During the early stage of labour, it is most common to stay home. When the contractions become stronger and more frequent, it is time to go to the hospital maternity ward.

When you are due to give birth, you can go to a maternity ward. There, you will be met by a midwife (barnmorska) and examined. You will be given your own room.

Sometimes help from a healthcare service is needed to get the childbirth process started. This is called inducing labour. There are different methods that can be used to induce labour. These are described here.

There are different positions that can help you when giving birth. It may feel good to change position from time to time to avoid getting too tired. This also makes it easier for the baby to move down towards the vagina and come out.

Everyone bleeds from the vagina after childbirth. The blood comes from a wound in the uterus. The wound occurs when the placenta detaches from the uterus. Some people who experience problems with bleeding may need to seek medical attention.

Vaginal tears are common in childbirth. Some tears are more severe and require stitches. Tears can be small or large. The tears are immediately taken care of after childbirth by a midwife (barnmorska) or doctor.

Some people develop an infection in their uterus after giving birth. This is because bacteria have got into the uterus. Seek medical attention so you can get treatment.

The length of stay in hospital after giving birth varies. It depends on the amount of care and help you and your baby need. Even if you have gone home with your baby, you can contact the hospital if you need to.

During a prolapse, something is bulging out through the opening of the vagina. This could be the uterus or the inside of the vagina (birth canal). It may feel uncomfortable, but there is treatment that can help.

After you have given birth, it is important to visit the midwife at the midwifery clinic. At the appointment, you will discuss how the birth went and how things have been afterwards. You will also undergo a physical examination and be given the opportunity to ask questions.

It is common to feel many emotions after giving birth. That is why it can be helpful to talk about your childbirth experience with a midwife or doctor. You can get more support if you need it.

When you start getting your period again after giving birth varies from one person to another. It is possible to become pregnant before you have started menstruating again.

Being pregnant and having a baby affects your body. After giving birth, your body needs to heal. Once your body has healed, it is a good idea to exercise. This video shows five exercises you can do.