How much time does a normal labour take during a first-time delivery?

In first-time mothers, normal labour usually lasts 12 to 20 hours, with the initial period taking the longest.

Is it possible that the baby could be affected due to a long labour?

Yes. Prolonged labour may increase the stress on your baby, but prompt medical intervention with on-time monitoring usually prevents serious complications.

What is my role in avoiding protracted labour?

You can never be totally sure that this won’t happen, but being active, feeling relaxed, and listening to your doctor could make your life easier.

Difference Between Normal and Prolonged Labour

Labour is often described as a life-changing experience that can also lead to unpredictable outcomes. You might wonder about how to understand normal labour or whether something is taking longer than expected. Understanding these differences helps you stay flexible with your planning, reduce stress, and respond properly to your body's signals. It also helps you get ready, both mentally and practically, like when to call your doctor or arrange everything at home. When you know what’s going on, you’re calmer, you make smart choices, and you can focus on having your baby safely, since you’ll know what’s normal and what might need medical support.

What Is Normal Labour?

Normal labour usually follows three stages:

1. Early labour is when your cervix starts to open, going from 0 to 4 cm. You’ll encounter some mild contractions that don’t happen frequently. This stage can last some hours or even a whole day.

2. Active labour starts when your cervix dilates from 4 to 10 cm. The contractions get stronger, last longer, and come more often. If you’re a first-time mother, this part usually lasts 4 to 8 hours.

3. After your cervix is wide open, it’s time to push. This will help the baby be born and help the placenta release.

During normal labour, you’ll see the cervix slowly open, contractions will come at regular intervals, and the baby will be doing fine.

How to Understand a Prolonged Labour?

Dystocia, i.e., a prolonged labour, occurs when the progress of labour pauses or stops. It can occur at any stage, but is most commonly seen during the active phase. Signs include:

The cervix isn't dilating at the expected rate (usually 1 cm per hour in first-time mothers).
Irregular, weak, or ineffective contractions that fail to move the baby.
For first-time mothers, labour lasts more than 20 hours, and for experienced mothers, it lasts more than 14 hours.

Prolonged labour may increase the risk of infection, dehydration, stress, or fatigue for both you and your baby.

What Causes Labour to Last Longer than Expected?

Here’s what can make the labour last a while:

If the baby’s in the wrong position, i.e., posterior or breech position, it can take longer for them to come out.
A small pelvis can mean a tighter squeeze and slower progress.
Sometimes, contractions aren’t strong enough or don’t coordinate well to open the cervix.
Things like high blood pressure, gestational diabetes, or being overweight can sometimes cause longer labour.
If it’s your first baby, expect labour to be a bit longer than if you had a baby before.

What Happens if Labour Takes Too Long?

A long labour can be tough on both you and your baby.

Pushing can become problematic if your body becomes extremely dehydrated or fatigued.
Labour that lasts a long time increases the risk of infection, especially if the membranes have been ruptured for many hours.
Feeling anxious, stressed, or overwhelmed is quite normal and needs to be handled tactfully.

Sometimes, prolonged labour can affect the baby's oxygen supply or heart rate.

How Can You Deal With Labour Progress?

Although it’s not possible for you to control labour entirely, you can deal with it more easily.

Keep moving - sway, walk around, or change your posture to help the baby descend.
Keep drinking water, and, if your doctor says it’s okay, consume some light snacks.
Do what your doctor tells you. Regular check-ups help you take care of yourself and the baby.

When Is It Time for Medical Assistance?

Labour is not progressing, even after some time.
You suddenly realise your contraction is stalled.
You have an infection or discharge with an odour.
You're in serious pain and bleeding heavily.
There are signs the baby’s in trouble; it is not moving much.

Getting in touch with the doctor quickly ensures any issues are addressed safely.

Emotional & Social Aspects

Giving birth can really be an intense experience, both for your body and mind. Your loved ones, doula, or birth companion can help:

Cheer you up to boost confidence
They should keep encouraging you during a lengthy labour
Reduce anxiety and fear
Strengthen bonding with your baby after delivery

Remember, your emotional health is no less important than your physical health during labour.

What to Watch for During Labour?

You should keep a close watch on contractions.
Note the time when the membranes rupture.
You must discuss your symptoms openly with your medical team.
You should prepare your comfort measures. Grab a pillow, put on some music, and get your birth ball ready.
You must have someone there to help you through it, both emotionally and physically.

Labour can be tough, and everyone’s experience is different. Usually, things move along at a good pace, but sometimes it might take a bit longer, and you may need your doctor’s help. Understanding your body well, knowing the difference, and having support by your side can help you process delivery carefully and self-assuredly. Every birth experience is unique, and being informed allows you to make smart choices for you and your baby.

Whether you’re pregnant, a new mom, or navigating postpartum, you don’t have to do it alone. Join our support group to connect, share, and support one another.

FAQs on The Difference Between Normal and Prolonged Labour

How much time does a normal labour take during a first-time delivery?
In first-time mothers, normal labour usually lasts 12 to 20 hours, with the initial period taking the longest.
Is it possible that the baby could be affected due to a long labour?
Yes. Prolonged labour may increase the stress on your baby, but prompt medical intervention with on-time monitoring usually prevents serious complications.
What is my role in avoiding protracted labour?
You can never be totally sure that this won’t happen, but being active, feeling relaxed, and listening to your doctor could make your life easier.