How does pushing out a baby feel?

sometimes after a long or difficult labor, the pushing stage can be exhausting and uncomfortable. Most women will feel increased pressure in their perineum, rectum, and low back at this stage. For many women, the rectal pressure feels the same as having a bowel movement.


When it’s finally time to push that moment can be extremely exciting, terrifying, exhausting and overwhelming all at once – especially if your labour has already been going on for several hours or even days.

As we mentioned before, the pushing phase of labour will vary for each person. The main sensations you may feel are:

* More intense and visible contractions with your uterus rising as each one occurs
* An overwhelming desire to push (however not everyone will feel this if they have had an epidural)
* Extreme pressure in your rectum and the urge to do a poo (don’t worry, that’s just the pressure of your baby’s body)
* The baby’s head moving down your birth canal
* A burning, stretching and tingling sensation in your vagina as your baby’s head starts to emerge
* A wet, slippery and heavy feeling as your baby pops their head out to the big wide world


During this stage of labour, be guided by your body, your breathing and your gut instinct. Listen to the medical professionals in the room, including your midwife or obstetrician, who will tell you exactly how and when to push in rhythm with your contractions.