Stages of Labor

By mhoward2020

  • Stage One

    Occurs when you begin to feel regular contractions, which cause the cervix to open and soften, shorten and thin. Allows the baby to move around in the birth canal. The longest of the three stages.

  • Stage One: Early Labor

    During early labor, your cervix dilates and effaces. You'll feel mild, irregular contractions.
    For first-time moms, the average length varies from hours to days. It's often shorter for subsequent deliveries.
    Until your contractions increase in frequency and intensity, it's up to you. For many women, early labor isn't particularly uncomfortable. Try to stay relaxed.

  • Stage One: Active Labor

    During active labor, your cervix will dilate from 6 centimeters (cm) to 10 cm. Your legs might cramp, and you might feel nauseated. You might feel your water break if it hasn't already, and experience increasing pressure in your back.
    Active labor often lasts four to eight hours or more.
    The last part of active labor can be particularly intense and painful. Contractions will come close together and can last 60 to 90 seconds. You'll experience pressure in your lower back and rectum.

  • Stage Three: The Placenta

    The placenta is typically delivered in five to 30 minutes, but the process can last as long as an hour. You'll continue to have mild contractions. They'll be close together and less painful. You'll be asked to push one more time to deliver the placenta. Your health care provider will examine the placenta to make sure it's intact. Any remaining fragments must be removed from the uterus to prevent bleeding and infection. Your uterus will contract to help it return to its normal size.

  • Stage Two: Birth

    It can take from a few minutes up to a few hours or more to push your baby. Your health care provider will ask you to bear down during each contraction or tell you when to push. Slowing down gives your vaginal tissues time to stretch rather than tear. After your baby's head is delivered, the rest of the baby's body will follow shortly. His or her airway will be cleared if necessary. Your health care provider or labor coach will then cut the umbilical cord.