The 4 P’s describe the mother’s role in the process of labor. The 4P’s all work together and essential to facilitate a safe and successful delivery. Powers – The power the mother exerts to push out the baby – Uterine power (contractions) and Cervical power (dilation and effacement). Passageway – the pathway the baby takes out of the mother’s body (pelvis and related structures). Passenger – the baby and placenta. Psyche – Mom’s emotional state: Supportive, therapeutic environment will facilitate a smoother labor. Fearful, angry, tense emotions will make labor much more difficult