Gary Poster, with essential assists from Galyn Norwood, Phiroon Phihakendr, Jose Quijada, Pavandeep Kalra. By Karen Miles To get the fetus out, your uterus has to contract, restricting blood flow and causing pain. The bigger the fetus and the smaller the pelvis, the harder the uterus has to contract. A large baby can also put more pressure on the nerve endings, causing more pain as he passes through.
Most babies travel through the birth canal face-down.
One who's faceup presses against your back nerves, since the hardest part of her head is flat against your pelvic wall. Some experts believe that women who are in good shape have easier labors, possibly because their muscles are stronger or they've built up better endurance. The ligaments and muscles in the pelvis have loosened up and are less likely to provide as much resistance the second time around. So talk to new moms, read about what to expect beforehand, and make sure your partner is able to give you the comfort and reassurance you need. Copyright 2001, The Parenting Group.