Episode 91: Supporting Precipitous Labor

Supporting precipitous labor is a skill that, for many doulas, is learned in real-time.

Precipitous labor is labor that ends 3-5 hours after the onset of labor.  On average, 1 in 3 of every 100 birthing people will experience precipitous labor.

While certain factors can make a pregnant person more likely to experience precipitous labor, the exact cause is unknown. As doulas, we often wonder what the “secret sauce” is. What is it that will cause some people to experience this type of labor.

While the idea of rapid labor may sound great to clients, this type of labor does present some challenges. The body is doing the same amount of work to give birth. Only it’s happening in a vastly condensed amount of time. This means that for most, the pace and intensity of the labor are likely more than anticipated.

Those who experience precipitous labor often relate that this type of labor is like going from 0-100 in .02 seconds. The expected build-up of contractions from early labor to active labor to transition just doesn’t happen.

Providing support in this type of situation can be challenging for those who support clients during labor. Helping clients cope in real-time is a process that is fast-paced and requires thinking on your toes. After the birth, it often takes clients some time to process that the birth is over. Even with the baby in their arms.

Come join us as we discuss the ins and outs of supporting precipitous labor.