What is the average amount of hours for child birth?

[Tattooedfairy19]

I'm only 29 weeks along, but I'm curious to how long I can expect to be in labor for when the time comes. I know everyone is different just trying to get an idea.

[ScorpioMoonChick]

That's just it.
There really isn't a set of hours, or a magical "average".

I was in labor for six hours, induced, but no pain meds.

I read that you want to go all natural. I did. And I want to let you know that it's easier to not worry about the time frame, because when I was at the hospital, I was staring at the clock, like when is he coming out? And that doesn't help. It only made me more anxious. So, what matters more is your mindframe. Think that he/she could come out anytime, and then just focus on relaxing.
There's an awesome book that helped me, I will find a link.

[ScorpioMoonChick]

www.amazon.com/.../ref=as_li_ss_tl

That book describes the medical procedures. I felt very informed after reading this, and it helped me stand up to the nurses and doctor at my hospital (they were suprised that I knew so much.)

And Google Birthing From Within.
This book helped me realize how important it was to be aware of what's going on and connect with my psyche.
(Warning: it gives off a New-Agey vibe, but take it with a grain of salt. Still a good read!)

Don't be afraid to stand up for yourself, and always take a copy of your birth plan to the hospital. (Th they said that mine was sent from the gynecologist and as it turns out the nurse never saw it! It was a good thing I've got my own copy.)

[LittleSally]

It could be a few hours up to a few days really... So...

[LittleSally]

Thank you and good luck!

[Tattooedfairy19]

Thanks and your welcome

[NearlyNapping]

I don't know the details, but I know it kinda depends on when you consider childbirth to start. It was a long time ago and my memory is dim, but with my ex I think from the time her water broke until birth was around 6-8 hours. I'm not sure what the definition of labor is. I don't know if it's from the time water breaks, when the contractions start, or something else.

[reptocarl]

The first it seems to take longer. My first was like 12 hours my second was half that

[taldaana]

According to the internet 6-8 hours lasting up till 18 hours. It depends on the birth method as well. C-section , natural, induced. According to my mom she has had all 3 she says that natural with an epidural was the best. Good luck with the birth.

[Tattooedfairy19]

Natural with no meds is what I want to do

[taldaana]

Well Good luck and hope all goes well.

[taldaana]

Oh and also the induced Labour was without meds and my mom said it was the most painful thing she has ever been through.