101. ‘I Can’t Do This Anymore’ Navigating Transition in Labour.

Ever wondered why labouring women sometimes say, “I can’t do this anymore”? In this episode, we’re getting real about the transition phase of labour - the powerful, emotional and physical tipping point just before pushing begins. Drawing on hundreds of births as a midwife, I explore what actually happens in your body and mind during transition, why feelings of doubt and restlessness are totally normal, and how support partners can make all the difference with simple words and presence.

You’ll learn practical strategies to move through this intense stage, plus why recognising transition can reduce panic and help you feel more confident. We also discuss how your birth team can positively influence your experience and share actionable tips for both mums and partners.

Interested in feeling informed and prepared for birth? Explore our Held Birth Classes in Adelaide or online, and download our refreshed free hospital packing list - designed to help you feel calmer and more intentional as you prepare for your labour.

DOWNLOAD YOUR FREE HOSPITAL PACKING LIST HERE – More than just baby and postpartum items, our list includes tools for managing pain and intensity during labour, helping you feel truly supported throughout birth.

Timestamps:

00:00:01 – Introduction & why transition in labour matters
00:01:17 – “I can’t do this anymore”: what it means and why it’s so common
00:03:12 – What is transition? Understanding this intense phase of labour
00:04:34 – The physical and emotional impact of rising adrenaline
00:05:59 – How adrenaline and the thinking brain interact during transition
00:06:27 – Common signs of transition: doubt, restlessness, and emotional changes
00:07:00 – Why partner support matters in transition & positive encouragement examples
00:08:01 – Transition: short but intense, and how everyone experiences it differently
00:09:08 – Strategies for coping: breathing, position changes, and encouraging words
00:11:20 – Special advice for partners: staying calm and confident
00:12:12 – The partner’s experience: normalisation and support tips
00:13:10 – Every birth is unique: not all mums experience transition the same way

I would love to hear your thoughts, questions, and ideas for future episodes so please get in touch on instagram - my insta is @heldmidwifery or through my website www.heldmidwifery.com.au. Remember to subscribe so you don't miss any episodes, and if you're enjoying the podcast I would be ever so grateful if you could rate and review  on your favourite podcast player. 

Disclaimer: Remember as always the info provided in this podcast does not constitute medical, midwifery, psychological, childbirth, pre-natal or post-natal education or other professional medical advice, and is provided for general information and guidance purposes only. Hannah Willsmore/Held Midwifery will not be liable for any expenses, losses, damages (including indirect or consequential damages) or costs which might be incurred as a result of your reliance on this information, advice, content or materials. This release includes but is not limited to any claim for personal injury, damages and death of any individual which has received information from Hannah Willsmore. Further, Hannah Willsmore does not make any representations or give any warranties about their accuracy, reliability, completeness or suitability