What To Do When Labour Starts: A Step-by-Step Guide for First-Time Parents

If you're pregnant with your first baby, one of the biggest questions you'll probably ask is:

"What do I do when labour starts?"

And honestly, that's completely normal.

Most women don't worry about giving birth every day during pregnancy. But when contractions begin, suddenly you want to know exactly what to do, when to go to hospital, and how to know if it's really labour.

The good news?

You don't need to panic. Labour usually unfolds slowly, giving you plenty of time to settle in and prepare.

Here's a simple step-by-step guide to help you feel calmer and more confident when the big day arrives.

Step 1: Pause Before You Rush to Hospital

One of the most common mistakes first-time parents make is assuming they need to leave immediately.

In reality, early labour can last many hours.

If contractions have just started:

• Stay home if you can.

• Keep things calm.

• Eat and drink normally.

• Rest between contractions.

• Continue with your day as much as possible.

For most women, labour progresses better when they feel relaxed and comfortable in familiar surroundings.

Step 2: Go for a Walk

Movement can be incredibly helpful during early labour.

Walking helps:

• Encourage baby into a good position.

• Support the natural progress of labour.

• Reduce tension and anxiety.

• Help you cope with contractions.

You don't need to march around the neighbourhood. Even gentle movement around the house or a short walk outside can feel good.

Step 3: Eat and Drink

Labour is physical work.

Think of it like preparing for a marathon.

Many women lose their appetite later in labour, so early labour is a great time to:

• Eat nourishing meals.

• Have easy snacks available.

• Stay well hydrated.

Some simple options include:

• Toast

• Fruit

• Yoghurt

• Smoothies

• Soup

• Pasta

• Crackers

Small amounts often feel easier than large meals.

Step 4: Rest While You Can

This is probably the advice women hear the most—and for good reason.

You don't get extra points for staying awake all night.

If labour begins in the evening:

• Go back to bed.

• Nap if you can.

• Lie down between contractions.

• Save your energy for later.

Labour often becomes more intense after many hours, so protecting your energy early can make a huge difference.

Step 5: Use Movement and Position Changes

You don't have to stay still during labour.

Many women find relief with:

Cat-Cow

Gentle movement through the spine can create space and help ease back discomfort.

Rocking Lunges

These encourage mobility in the pelvis and may help baby rotate into a favourable position.

Supported Squats

Squatting can help open the pelvis and create space for baby to descend.

Changing positions regularly often helps women feel more comfortable and work with their contractions rather than against them.

Step 6: Know the Signs Active Labour Is Beginning

Early labour contractions are often irregular.

As labour becomes established, contractions usually become:

• Stronger.

• Longer.

• Closer together.

• Harder to talk through.

You may notice:

• Needing to focus during contractions.

• Less interest in conversation.

• Increased pressure or intensity.

• A need to stop and breathe through each contraction.

Every labour is different, so trust your instincts as well as your healthcare provider's advice.

Step 7: Call Your Midwife

You don't need to figure everything out alone.

Your midwife can help guide you based on:

• Your contraction pattern.

• Baby's movements.

• How you're feeling.

• Your pregnancy history.

Many women are surprised to learn they can stay home much longer than they expected.

Step 8: Remember That Labour Doesn't Need To Be Perfect

There is no prize for doing labour "the right way."

Birth plans may change.

Labour may be fast.

Labour may be slow.

You might use all the pain relief or none at all.

The goal isn't perfection.

The goal is feeling informed, supported and confident in the decisions you make.

Frequently Asked Questions

How do I know if labour has started?

Signs labour may be starting include:

• Regular contractions.

• Period-like cramps.

• Lower back pain.

• A bloody show.

• Waters breaking.

• Increasing intensity over time.

If you're unsure, speak with your midwife.

Should I go to hospital as soon as contractions start?

Usually, no.

Most first-time mums spend much of early labour at home, where they are comfortable and relaxed.

Your midwife can advise you when the time is right.

What should I do while waiting for labour to progress?

Try to:

• Walk.

• Eat.

• Drink fluids.

• Rest.

• Use movement and different positions.

• Stay calm.

• Keep your environment relaxed.

What if my waters break first?

Contact your midwife for advice.

The colour of the fluid, your baby's movements and whether contractions have started will all help determine the next steps.

Can I prepare for labour before it starts?

Absolutely.

Learning about labour, understanding your options and practising comfort measures during pregnancy can help you feel much calmer when labour begins.

Preparing for Birth in Auckland

Many couples tell us that the biggest benefit of attending Antenatal Classes Auckland is simply knowing what to do when labour starts.

Because confidence doesn't come from memorising every detail.

It comes from understanding what's normal, knowing your options, and having practical tools you can actually use on the day.

Related Articles

You might also enjoy:

• How Do You Know When To Go To Hospital During Labour?

• Can I Cope With Labour?

• Signs Labour Is Near: 10 Clues Your Body Is Preparing for Birth

• Hospital Bag Checklist for New Zealand Parents

If you're looking for modern, evidence-based Antenatal Classes Auckland, our one-day classes help first-time parents feel calm, confident and prepared for birth and life with a newborn.

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