What to Expect When You Go to the Hospital When You're in Labor. When Should You Call the Doctor?

Bringing a new life into the world is an exhilarating experience. However, it comes with uncertainty — especially if this is your first baby. 

If you’re wondering when to call your doctor, when to go to the hospital, and what to expect when you get there, you’re in the right place. 

Alan Patterson, MD, has delivered over 6,000 babies and can tell you exactly what to expect when you go into labor and arrive at the hospital.

Recognizing the start of labor

Labor looks and feels different for every woman. However, some rules of thumb can help you determine when active labor starts.

Do your contractions follow the 5-1-1 rule?

One of the simplest ways to determine if you’re in active labor is the 5-1-1 rule. This easy-to-remember tip means contractions are five minutes apart, each lasting one minute, and this pattern continues for at least one hour. If you meet those criteria, it’s time to head to the hospital.

How do your contractions feel?

Early labor contractions often feel like menstrual cramps and may be irregular. Pay attention to their frequency, duration, and intensity. Record your contractions to see if they fit the 5-1-1 pattern. 

Did your water break?

Another sign labor has started is when your water breaks, which can happen as a sudden gush or a slow trickle. If your water breaks, note the color and odor of the fluid and contact us immediately. It’s a clear sign your baby is on the way.

When to call Dr. Patterson

Knowing when to call the doctor is one of the most common concerns of pregnant women. Call Dr. Patterson when:

• You have regular contractions that follow the 5-1-1 rule
• Your water breaks
• You feel any unusual symptoms like severe pain or bleeding
• You notice a significant decrease in your baby’s movements, which can be a sign that your baby is in distress

Finally, call Dr. Patterson with any concerns or questions about your symptoms. 

What happens at the hospital when you’re in labor?

If this is your first baby, every experience, including your arrival at the hospital, is new. Here’s what to expect.

Initial assessment

When you arrive at the hospital, we check your vital signs, monitor the baby’s heart rate, and assess how far along you are in labor. 

Admission process

Once admitted, you go to a labor and delivery room, change into a hospital gown, and get hooked up to monitoring equipment that keeps an eye on your baby’s heart rate and your contractions. You’ll also get an IV line for fluids and medications if needed.

Pain management options

Now is the time to discuss pain management options with Dr. Patterson. You can choose from various methods, including natural pain relief techniques, epidurals, or other medications. 

Continuous monitoring

Throughout your labor, we monitor you and your baby, check your cervix to track dilation and effacement, watch the baby’s heart rate, and follow your contractions.

When the time comes, Dr. Patterson helps you deliver your baby smoothly, guiding you on when to push and how to breathe through your contractions.

During your prenatal visits, Dr. Patterson explains each step of labor and delivery, but if you have more questions, never hesitate to call us or book an appointment online.