How long can labour safely last if it’s progressing slowly?

Doctors allow labour to continue safely for hours as long as your baby’s heartbeat is normal and you are doing well.

Can stress or fear slow down labour?

Yes, emotional stress releases adrenaline, which can interfere with oxytocin. Staying calm, breathing deeply, and feeling supported can help labour move naturally.

What if my labour stops completely?

Your doctor may check your baby’s position if the contraction stops and does not start on its own. They may suggest medical help, such as oxytocin or a cesarean section, depending on your and your baby’s safety.

How the Body Adapts When Labour Doesn’t Progress as Expected

You may believe that labour follows a predictable pattern, which starts with contractions, gets stronger and ends with the delivery of the baby. This sounds good in theory, but labour does not always progress smoothly in real life. There may be moments when it can slow down or stop entirely. It can be a concerning situation if this happens to you. But your body adjusts, rests and prepares for the next stage. You can learn to support it during this process.

What Does It Mean When Labour Doesn’t Progress?

If labour is not progressing, it means that your cervix is not dilating or your baby is not descending quickly. Labour progresses at about 1cm of dilation per hour during the active labour phase. But it is important to note that every individual experiences labour at a different pace.

It is a common situation because, according to research, almost 20% of labour experiences delays. It happens due to the following reasons:

The baby’s position (for example, if the head isn’t aligned properly)
Weak or irregular contractions
Tiredness, anxiety, or stress
A full bladder or dehydration
Early use of pain relief or an epidural slows contractions

How Does Your Body Respond to Slow Labour?

Your body can do wonders during labour by quickly adapting to the changes as the labour slows down. It can support both you and your baby due to many physiological and hormonal changes.

Your hormones adjust naturally: Oxytocin controls contractions during labour. So, your body produces less of this hormone when your progress slows down to allow for rest. The hormone levels rise again after you regain strength to restart the process naturally. At the same time, endorphins also increase, which act as pain relievers to help you stay calm.
Your uterus takes breaks: Your uterus works in a cycle, so it relaxes when the contractions pause. This action allows blood flow to the placenta to replenish oxygen supply to your baby. Your body prevents exhaustion by taking these breaks.
Your cervix softens gradually: Your cervix needs to thin out and soften to deliver the baby, which is also called effacement. It may take more time for this process in some cases. It simply means your body is preparing for dilation.
Your body conserves energy: You may enter a rest mode if your labour slows down so that your body gets time to rebuild its stamina. You may feel sleepy during this period, which helps conserve energy for pushing later.

Why Is It Important to Let Your Body Take Its Time?

Give your body time to adjust for the following benefits:

Avoid exhaustion and dehydration
Supply oxygen continuously to your baby
Reduce the need for medical interventions like forceps or vacuum delivery
Support hormonal balance for postpartum recovery

What Can You Do When Labour Isn’t Progressing?

You can support your body naturally by using safe techniques to help things move along.

Change positions frequently: Walking, sitting on a birthing ball, or leaning forward can help your baby move into a better position. Upright positions rely on gravity for their descent.
Stay hydrated and nourished: Fluids can help you manage contractions, so take sips of water or coconut water to stay hydrated. Eat light snacks if your doctor permits you, as it helps maintain your energy during labour.
Relax and breathe deeply: Your body may release adrenaline if you feel anxious due to slow labour. This stress hormone counters oxytocin. Deep breathing, visualisation, or gentle massage can keep your mind and body relaxed.
Empty your bladder regularly: A full bladder can block your baby’s descent and slow progress. Try to urinate every 1–2 hours during labour.

When Should You Seek Medical Support?

Slow labour is common, but certain situations require closer attention.

Contractions stop completely for over 2 hours in active labour
Your baby’s movements decrease
You have a high fever, heavy bleeding, or severe pain
There are signs of foetal distress (as indicated by your care team)

Emotional and Social Aspects

You may feel discouraged if your labour does not go as planned. Please do not blame yourself. Remember that your body is adjusting to this new change as best as possible. Try to express your feelings or needs to your partner or family so that they can support you. A verbal reassurance from them can release tension, allowing you to deliver confidently.

What To Do Next: A Simple Checklist

Take small sips of water to keep your energy levels up
Move around or change your positions to stay comfortable
Convey how you feel to your care team
Use breathing and relaxation techniques
Trust your body’s pace, as it works with you

It can be stressful when labour does not progress as expected. Your body is taking this time to adapt and prepare for a safe delivery. You can reduce anxiety and improve your labour experience by supporting your body with rest, hydration, and calm. Remember that every baby takes their time to arrive, and that is perfectly okay.

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FAQs on How the Body Adapts When Labour Doesn’t Progress as Expected?

How long can labour safely last if it’s progressing slowly?
Doctors allow labour to continue safely for hours as long as your baby’s heartbeat is normal and you are doing well.
Can stress or fear slow down labour?
Yes, emotional stress releases adrenaline, which can interfere with oxytocin. Staying calm, breathing deeply, and feeling supported can help labour move naturally.
What if my labour stops completely?
Your doctor may check your baby’s position if the contraction stops and does not start on its own. They may suggest medical help, such as oxytocin or a cesarean section, depending on your and your baby’s safety.