Precipitous labor, also called rapid labor only occurs in about 3% of births, and is when your labor only lasts for 5 hours or less after regular contractions start. Although it usually only occurs to an overall small number of women, it is hard to predict who will have a precipitous birth, and if you’re unprepared for it, I can lead to a traumatic experience.
Labor itself tends to begin without warning and goes from 0 to 10 in a matter of minutes. Women who experience a precipitous labor either do not feel their early labor al all or have an extremely short early labor stage.
What causes a Precipitous Birth?
Some factors that could lead to precipitous birth include but are not limited to, family history, chronic high blood pressure, fertility treatments, induction of labor with prostaglandin and placenta abruption.
Are Precipitous Births more Painful?
They can definitely be considered more intense because of how fast they are, and usually you don’t have the same breaks in between contractions. Physically, precipitous labor can cause an increased risk of hemorrhage, vaginal tearing, retained placenta, and a risk of infection to baby or mother if birth takes place in an unsterilized environment. Emotionally, precipitous labor can lead to trauma for mom.
Trauma from Precipitous Birth
While precipitous births are generally good for the baby, they can be extremely traumatic both physically and psychological for mom. Because this type of birth is so rare, women are often not believed and are left feeling like they had no voice and no control during their labor. These feelings can have an effect on a new mom’s mental health.
Shock is a common feeling after a precipitous birth since your body and mind have not had time to adjust. You may also feel a sense of sadness or loss for the labor you imagined or desired. Fear of future births or little desire for another child may also be a common feeling after a precipitous birth.
It’s important to find a Doula to support you, to have a provider who you trust and who will believe you, and a team who understands and helps validate and works through the trauma with you. Most moms who experience rapid labors do not appreciate hearing that they were lucky. All birth journeys are tough, unique, and come with their own experiences. All women should be respected, heard, and supported. If you are a mom who has experienced a precipitous birth, we see you, and we are here for you.
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