You must have heard stories and read news articles about women giving birth on their way to the hospital—in a public toilet, on a moving train, in a car, or even on the pavement. There is a high chance that some of these women may have experienced fast labor or precipitous labor.

When delivery takes place within three to five hours of the first contraction, it is called precipitous labor. While it may sound quite appealing to many women, be cautious of wishing for one as it comes with its share of risks and challenges.

What is Precipitous Labor?

Precipitous labor is when a pregnant woman delivers the baby within 3-5 hours of their first contraction. Three hours may seem like forever when you are in labor but that is the minimum threshold for the contractions to stabilize. Normal labor comprises three stages and usually lasts between 6-18 hours. The three stages of normal labor are:

1. Active Labor: During this stage the contraction gradually becomes intense. The mucus plug that seals the cervix opens up and fluids start to leak.
2. Birth: In this stage, the mother pushes the baby out.
3. Placenta Delivery: In this final stage, the placenta is delivered. This happens within a few minutes after the birth of the baby.

If you are having precipitous labor then you will have strong contractions from the beginning. There will be no gradual intensification of contractions. Some women experiencing precipitous labor may completely skip the first stage and feel a sudden urge to push the baby. You may suddenly realize that your baby is arriving when you find the head descending. You may deliver the baby even before reaching the hospital.

What Causes Precipitous Labor?

The actual cause of precipitous labor is not known. However, certain factors that could contribute to precipitous labor include:

• The low resistance of the birth canal
• The low muscle tone of the vagina and pelvic floor
• Low birth weight of the baby or intrauterine growth restriction
• Placental abruption
• Given birth previously
• A previous history of precipitous delivery
• Undergone IVF treatment
• Young maternal age
• Induced labor
• Preeclampsia or poorly controlled blood pressure

Signs of Precipitous Labor

The signs of precipitous labor are as follows:

• A sudden pattern of strong contractions with closely spaced intervals. The contractions are so rapid and fast that you will not get any time in between to rest or recover.
• You may feel one strong and continuous contraction instead of frequent contractions at regular intervals.
• Severely intense pain accompanied by the contraction.
• A sensation in the pelvis and a sudden urge to push.
• An intense urge to pass stool immediately.
• The contraction may seem never-ending.

Risks Associated with Precipitous Labor

You may find fast labor appealing but there are many risks involved with fast delivery. Thankfully, many women who undergo precipitous labor have no complications. Here are the risks involved with precipitous labor:

• Emotionally stressful
• Bruising or tears in your cervix, vagina, or perineum due to the rapidness of the delivery
• Increased risk of postpartum hemorrhage or heavy bleeding
• Uterine atony or a condition where your womb has not got time to properly contract after the birth
• Retained placenta where all or part of your placenta remains inside your womb after delivery
• Infection to the mother and child 
• If you delivered before reaching the hospital chances are you and your baby will contract an infection from the unsterile environment
• Trauma and depression due to improper coping mechanism

Conclusion

The best way to cope with precipitous labor is to be prepared. Talk to your doctor about what to do in a situation of precipitous labor. Practice breathing techniques such as Lamaze to help you during precipitous labor.