Labor is divided into three stages delineated by the dilation of the cervix and changes in the uterus, according to BabyCenter website. Your physician will determine how your labor is progressing via a physical examination to determine your baby's positioning and the amount of centimeters your cervix is dilated.
First Stage
Some divide the first stage of labor into two separate stages---early and active labor, according to Sutter Health website. However, these stages can be grouped together because they conclude with the full dilation of the cervix, according to BabyCenter. At the beginning of labor, you begin to experience contractions, squeezing motions that can cause discomfort or pain. Your contractions will come more closely together and your cervix will start to dilate. Typically, contractions will peak at lasting 40 to 60 seconds every five minutes. These contractions may be accompanied by a blood-tinged, thickened vaginal discharge.
You transition to active labor when your cervix is dilated 10 cm. This is known as active labor because your baby is actively moving into position, according to the Expectant Mother's Guide. Contractions will continue to increase in duration and may become stronger, according to MayoClinic.com. This type of labor lasts an average of eight hours, but can last longer.
Second Stage
This stage is when your physician determines your cervix is fully dilated and it is time to begin pushing, according to MayoClinic.com. Women may choose a variety of positions to push in, including lying in bed or even on all fours. Your physician should direct you as to how hard or gentle to push---pushing too hard can cause tearing or swelling that results in bleeding. The head should be delivered first, and you will feel baby's head passing between your legs; however, an epidural to relieve pain may dull this sensation somewhat. When the head begins to emerge, your doctor will remove any placenta or other matter from your baby's mouth and nose. The body will follow closely thereafter. This stage, in total, lasts anywhere from 20 minutes to an hour, according to BabyCenter.
Third Stage
The third and final stage of labor is the delivery of the placenta, according to the Mayo Clinic. The placenta is what nourished your baby throughout your pregnancy. Your physician also will work to control any bleeding. It is not abnormal to continue to experience contractions, although they should be mild. You may need to push the placenta out. If stitches are required to repair any areas of torn tissue, this will be performed at the third stage. This may take up to 30 minutes, according to MayoClinic.com.
