Fast Labor

What is a Fast Labor?

A Fast Labor, also known as a precipitous birth, is a labor that lasts less than three hours. A fast labor is not an emergency situation since generally a fast labor means everything is working perfectly.

Why is a fast labor a challenge?

Though it happens in only a small number of births, the strong contractions that accompany a fast labor can be overwhelming to a mother who did not expect to progress through labor so quickly. Emotionally, the mother may begin to doubt herself and her ability to cope because she is having such difficulty handling what she believes to be early labor.

Physically, a fast labor, specifically a fast pushing phase may increase the risk a mother tears if her body is not ready to stretch. However, some experts believe whether or not a woman tears has more to do with whether she is working with her body than how fast birth happens.

It is important that the coaches and caregivers assess the physical and emotional signs to reassure the mother that she has progressed quickly. For many women, knowing that they are nearly done makes them feel more confident.

Coaching Solutions

Pay special attention to the emotional signs to have an accurate picture of where she is in labor.

Do not leave her alone.

Remind her that everything is moving fast because everything is going right.

Try techniques that may slow labor, such as side lying positions rather than upright positions or walking.

Things to discuss with your caregiver: