I never imagined I’d be in labour for a week. Every day felt longer than the last, and the exhaustion was unimaginable. I’m Angie Bothma, and I want to share what it was really like to endure this prolonged labour - the fears, the pain, and the tiny moments of hope that kept me going.
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Angie Bothma was 25 when she gave birth to her first child. She shares her story of her pregnancy, week-long labour and induction.
My husband and I spent two years trying to get pregnant and then three months after we moved, I was expecting. We were over the moon and counted down each day until our baby was due to arrive. We wished for a little boy and were thrilled when the scans and sonar showed it was a boy. Close to my due date, my parents took two weeks’ leave and came to visit.
My due date came and went and I was about 42 weeks when I was admitted to the hospital for an induction in the form of a pill. Most women go into labour after taking two or three pills, but I was given 12 and still, our baby was still reluctant to make his debut. I was in severe pain and they finally put me on an induction drip. By then I had been bed-ridden and in labour for a week. That Wednesday morning, the 8th of July, I called my husband and told him that I was booked for a C-section. He couldn’t be there with me so it was a very emotional morning. I was happy, but also very afraid since I did not know what to expect. There were lonely moments while I waited, praying that everything would be okay!
“Most women go into labour after taking two or three pills, but I was given 12 and still our baby was still reluctant to make his debut.”
The next moment I was in theatre and then I heard his cry for the first time. I was so relieved, but I didn’t even have tears to cry; my tears had dried up after a whole week of pain and crying. They quickly showed him to me and then took him away for testing. After half an hour, I was with him and everyone who came to meet him cried tears of joy. Once everyone left, I was alone with my baby boy, who weighed 3.68kg. The way he looked at me that first time was priceless; it was as if he just knew I was his mother. I thank God every day for my healthy and beautiful miracle baby.
FAQ’s: In Labour for a Week
Is it possible to be in labour for a whole week?
Yes. Some women experience what’s known as prodromal labour, which can feel like true labour but is actually a long, irregular early stage. Contractions may come and go for days or even a week before active labour begins.
What is prodromal labour?
Prodromal labour is a prolonged early stage where contractions occur but do not lead to steady cervical dilation. It can be exhausting, but it’s the body’s way of preparing for active labour.
How is prodromal labour different from active labour?
In active labour, contractions become regular, closer together, stronger, and longer-lasting, leading to progressive cervical dilation. Prodromal contractions, on the other hand, often ease off, vary in strength, and may stop altogether.
What causes prolonged early labour?
Possible causes include:
- Baby’s position in the womb
- Stress, anxiety, or fatigue
- Hormonal factors
- An individual’s unique labour pattern
Is being in labour for a week dangerous?
Usually, prodromal labour is not harmful to mother or baby, though it is physically and emotionally exhausting. If there are signs of infection, decreased baby movements, bleeding or if waters break without progress, medical care is urgent.
How can I cope with being in labour for so long?
- Rest whenever contractions ease
- Stay hydrated and eat small, energy-boosting meals
- Use relaxation techniques like breathing exercises, warm baths, or gentle stretches
- Seek support from your partner, doula, or midwife
When should I go to hospital if I’ve been in labour for days?
Go if:
- Contractions become regular, stronger, and closer (about 5 minutes apart)
- Waters break
- You notice vaginal bleeding
- Baby’s movements decrease
- You feel unwell, feverish, or unusually weak
Can prolonged labour increase the risk of a C-section?
It can. Women who are exhausted by days of contractions may be less able to cope with active labour. Doctors may suggest interventions such as induction or caesarean section if labour does not progress.
What emotional impact can prolonged labour have?
Feeling anxious, frustrated, or even defeated is common. Supportive care, reassurance, and rest are vital. Postnatal emotional wellbeing should also be monitored, as prolonged labour may increase the risk of postpartum anxiety or depression.
Does a long early labour mean my next birth will be the same?
Not necessarily. Every pregnancy and birth is different. Some women who had prolonged labour with one baby go on to have faster, smoother births in later pregnancies.
Can anything help move prodromal labour into active labour?
Sometimes walking, gentle movement, and changing positions help. Staying relaxed and well-rested also encourages progress. However, if your labour stalls for too long, medical intervention may be recommended.
Disclaimer: This information is for general educational purposes only and should not replace professional medical advice. If you think you are in prolonged or difficult labour, contact your midwife, doctor, or nearest hospital immediately for assessment and support.
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