What can you do during active labour? How long will the contractions last and what's the interval? Is it a good time to ask for an epidural?

The first stage of childbirth is labour, which is in turn broken down into three phases: Early, active, and transitional.

Phase 2: Active Labour

Your contractions will grow stronger and longer during active labour, a phase that usually lasts from two to three and a half hours. You'll usually be in the hospital or birthing center by this phase. As your cervix dilates to seven centimeters, contractions will come every 3 to 4 minutes and will typically last 40 to 60 seconds (may not follow a regular pattern).

Do your best to stay relaxed and comfortable, and don't be shy about asking for whatever you need.

• If you're having an unmedicated or natural birth: 

- your contractions will soon become too strong for you to talk through them (start your breathing exercises).
- you might be offered a light snack and clear beverages or ice chips to keep you hydrated (you might get an IV to maintain fluids if you want).
- walk around a bit (if you can) or change positions between contractions.
- make sure you continue to urinate regularly.
- staff at the hospital will be on hand to take your blood pressure, time your contractions, and monitor the baby's position and progress.

• If you want to get an epidural, now would be a good time to ask for one. If you do, you'll be hooked up to an IV to maintain your fluids and also probably be hooked up to a continuous fetal monitor. Try to change positions if you can.