The transitional stage of labour

The transitional stage of labour, or transition, as it may also be referred to, is said to occur between the first and second stages of labour. It is a phenomenon that is generally acknowledged by members of the midwifery profession and by childbirth educators, although it does not appear to be recognised by the obstetric profession at all.

There is a general lack of information or research about transition in labour. Current literature describes a number of ‘traditional’ and slightly more recent descriptions of transitional behaviours. These behaviours have been identified as being potentially helpful in assessing women's progress in labour.

It is possible for midwives to recognise the transitional stage of labour by means other than vaginal examination. By learning to recognise different labour behaviours we can nurture our midwifery skills and regain confidence in assessing progress in normal labour, other than by intrusive examinations. If we can learn to trust in both our own and in women's abilities we can truly reclaim both the skill and the art of midwifery.