What happens during labour?

What can I do at home when labour is just beginning?

Relaxin – the hormone that softens the pelvis

Adrenaline and noradrenaline – stress hormones that help at the right time

Endorphins – the body’s natural pain relief

Oxytocin – the hormone that drives contractions

Prostaglandins – the hormones that soften the cervix and help labour begin

Progesterone – the hormone that keeps the uterus calm until labour begins

What happens when you are admitted to the labour ward?

How can I manage contractions at home or at the delivery unit?