You may experience some blood-stained mucous like discharge called a “show”.
This can occur days or even weeks before labour begins. If you experience any
fresh period like bleeding or you are unsure about vaginal loss you are experiencing
please contact delivery suite.
You may feel increasing pelvic pressure as your baby moves into your pelvis.
You may have increased vaginal discharge.
Your membranes may rupture (waters break), which may feel like a slow leak or a
gush of fluid. If you suspect this may have happened please contact us on one of
the telephone number below if you are unsure when to phone or need advice.
How long does the latent phase last?
This phase may last from 6-10 hours up to a few days, although it is often much shorter for
second and any further labours. In some women there is an unnoticed change from the
latent phase to active labour, while others experience a rest in between.
Established labour has been reached when contractions are stronger and regular lasting
longer than before, usually up to a minute and occurring at least two to three times in a
ten-minute period. This change from latent phase to established labour can be hard to
recognise for women and health professionals alike so assessment can be provided by
telephone contact initially then face-to-face contact during this time. Please see telephone
numbers below to contact us.
How can I help myself through the latent phase?
We recommend that you stay at home for as long as possible during this phase of labour,
(unless otherwise informed by your midwife or doctor). There are many ways you can help
yourself through these first hours of the latent phase of labour:
It is important to stay calm and relaxed this will allow the hormones responsible for
labour progressing (oxytocin) to flow.
Keep your breathing deep, steady, and slow during a contraction. As the contraction
starts, focus on taking a breath in, allowing the breath out to be longer slower and
steadier. As a rough guide in for 4 seconds out for 6. It can help if you inhale
through your nose and breathe out through your mouth.
Practice any relaxation or hypnobirthing techniques you have learnt.
Distract yourself by listening to music, watching television, doing some light
household activities, taking a walk, etc.
Timing- try not to spend all your time looking at the clock or timing the contractions
on an app. This can make labour feel much longer.
Try a warm bath or shower at regular intervals, you may find the warmth of the
water soothing and relaxing.
Ensure you maintain your energy levels for labour by eating small, light meals
containing carbohydrates such as toast, bananas, pasta or cereals.
The Latent Phase of Labour: How to Recognise What is Happening and How to Cope
Author/s: Helen Clough, Charles Bircher Author/s title: Community PDM Midwife, Consultant Obstetrician
Approved by: PIF Date approved: 20/05/2021 Review date: 20/05/2024
Available via Trust Docs Version: 2 Trust Docs ID: 15134 Page 2 of 5