Does a short labor sound like the way to go? Well, we can tell you that these rapid labors aren't all they're cracked up to be. The pain can be remarkably intense as your body does a big job of dilating and contracting in a very short time. You also might not have time for pain relief; that means you won’t benefit from an epidural, time in the tub or anything in between. It is also tough on baby, and everyone helping you deliver will be rushing to catch the baby… that is, if you make it to the hospital or birth center in time!

What can you do about precipitous labor? Follow the Boy Scout adage: Be prepared and read up on the basics of emergency delivery. When in doubt or if the baby seems to be coming too quickly, call your caregiver, the labor and delivery unit or even emergency services.