Urge to push

Definition

The “urge to push” is a term used in childbirth that refers to a woman’s natural instinct to bear down or push during labor, particularly during the second stage when the baby is ready to be delivered. This strong abdominal pressure is often accompanied by feelings of pressure in the rectum. It is a biological response triggered by contractions as the baby moves down into the birth canal.

Key Takeaways

1. The “urge to push” refers to the instinctive desire a woman has to actively push during labor, which can help facilitate childbirth.
2. This urge is a normal part of the latter stages of labor, often associated with the transition phase or the second stage of labor, and is largely driven by a woman’s natural hormones and the positioning of the baby.
3. While the urge to push can convey the body’s readiness for delivery, it’s important for a woman to communicate with her healthcare team and follow their instructions during this phase to ensure a safe birth process for both mother and baby.

Importance

The term “urge to push” in motherhood is crucial because it signifies a significant stage in labor, often indicating that the birth process is nearing its completion.

It is the body’s natural response when the baby descends into the birth canal, applying pressure to the rectal muscles, which prompts the mother to push.

This involuntary urge is an integral part of the mother’s active participation in delivering the baby.

It allows the mother to work with her body’s natural instincts, aiding in a smoother and potentially less stressful delivery.

Consequently, midwives, doulas, and obstetricians keenly observe these signals to guide mothers appropriately during labor.

Explanation

The term “urge to push” in motherhood pertains to a stage experienced by pregnant women, commonly in advanced stages of labor. It originates from the body’s natural inclination to assist in the delivery of the baby. This phenomenon occurs as the baby descends into the birth canal, applying pressure on the rectal muscles, which sends neural signals to the brain, inducing the sensation or ‘urge’ to push.

This compelling desire is an essential part of the normal labor process orchestrated by a complex interplay of hormonal changes, muscle contractions, and neural signals. The urge to push serves a vital purpose in the process of childbirth. It’s a primeval and physiological response that aids in the progression of labor.

Pushing not only speeds up the descent of the baby but also helps to expand the birth canal, facilitating smoother and safer delivery. Contrary to popular belief, controlled and directed pushing can be beneficial in reducing the risks of childbirth-associated complications for both the mother and the baby. This spontaneous urge encourages the expecting mother to exert effort in sync with her body’s signals, rather than arbitrary, nurse-directed pushing.

The urge to push represents the power and purpose of a woman’s body preparing to bring new life into the world.

Examples of Urge to push

Labor and childbirth: The most apparent real world example of the term “urge to push” is during labor and childbirth. As a woman nears the end of her labor, strong contractions and pressure on her pelvic area often result in an intense urge to push, which assists in the birthing process.

Fitness and exercise: Another notable example relates to fitness and exercise, particularly for mothers trying to regain their pre-pregnancy body condition. They might have the “urge to push” themselves to keep up with their workout routines, even when they’re physically and mentally tired.

Balancing responsibilities: Finally, the term can also be seen as a metaphor in balancing life’s responsibilities. Many mothers feel the “urge to push” when juggling between career, housework, and caring for their family, constantly striving to give their best in every responsibility.

FAQ on Urge to Push

What is the “urge to push” during childbirth?

The “urge to push” refers to the natural instinct that a woman experiences during the second stage of labor. It results from the body’s automatic response to the baby moving down the birth canal.

How should I respond to the urge to push?

You should always heed your body’s signals. If you feel the urge to push, alert your health care provider. They will guide you on when to push and how to do it correctly to avoid exhaustion.

Can there be an urge to push before it’s time to deliver?

Yes, you might experience what’s known as “Ferguson reflex” or the “urge to push” before your cervix is fully dilated. It’s essential to wait until you’re fully dilated before you start pushing to prevent complications.

What should I do if I have the urge to push but I’m told not to?

If you have a strong urge to push but your healthcare provider has advised you not to, try to use breathing techniques to resist the urge. Also, always communicate your feelings with your healthcare provider.

Related Motherhood Terms

• Contractions
• Birth process
• Labour pain
• Dilation of the cervix
• Childbirth

Sources for More Information

• Mayo Clinic – A nonprofit organization committed to clinical practice, education, and research, providing expert, comprehensive care to everyone who needs healing.
• WebMD – Provides valuable health information, tools for managing your health, and support to those who seek information.
• National Health Service (NHS) – The UK’s biggest health website providing comprehensive health information service with thousands of articles, videos and tools.
• Healthline – The fastest growing consumer health information site, with 125 million monthly visitors you can trust for expert content along with genuine caring.