What Do We Mean by the Early Phase of Labour?
Abstract
Chapter 4 explores the onset of the early and active phases of labour. The definitions and their origins are discussed, highlighting that these are not as clear cut and well understood as we might expect. The authors identify the factors that are used by health professionals to identify labour onset, noting that cervical dilation and/or effacement remain key in defining early labour onset. The implications of this for women, who do not have access to this information while at home, and the uncertainty it produces are discussed.
Fields of Study & Subjects
Maternal and Perinatal Health Interventions
Reproductive Health and Contraception
Maternal and Neonatal Healthcare
Publication details
- Journal / source
- Routledge eBooks
- Pages
- 36–42
- Publication date
- 3 February 2026
- Language
- EN
- Document type
- Book chapter