For many women, pregnancy is one of the most exciting times of their lives. Over the course of your pregnancy you may spend time decorating your baby's nursery, shopping for baby clothes, choosing a name for your new baby and contemplating what life with your newborn will be like. As your pregnancy comes to an end and your labor begins, you will experience several birthing stages that eventually lead to the birth of your baby.
Stage One
The onset of labor signals the beginning of the first stage of childbirth, commonly known as early labor. During early labor your cervix begins to efface and will dilate to 3 cm. According to MayoClinic.com, as your cervix opens, you may notice a thick, blood-tinged discharge which is referred to as your " bloody show." While in early labor, you will experience contractions every five to 20 minutes and they will last 30 to 60 seconds. Contractions are irregular and mild at first, but become stronger as early labor progresses. Early labor is the longest stage of labor and may last for hours or days. Some women decide to spend early labor at home. You may walk around, shower or nap during the early stage of labor.
Stage Two
Once your contractions become stronger and closer together, you've moved into the second birthing stage, known as active labor. Now is the time for you to go to the hospital. Pregnancy.org states that your cervix will dilate from 3 cm to 7 cm during this phase. Contractions occur every three to five minutes, lasting 45 to 60 seconds. Active labor lasts approximately three to eight hours, varying from woman to woman. As active labor becomes more intense, you may feel the need for pain medication. Now is the time to speak to your doctor and he will decide which pain relief method is best for you and your baby.
Stage Three
The most difficult stage of childbirth is the transition phase. This stage normally lasts between 30 minutes and two hours. Your cervix will dilate to 10 cm and contractions are much stronger, lasting 30 seconds to two minutes and occurring every minute or two, but they may overlap and seem to never end. According to Pregnancy.com, you could experience gas, nausea, vomiting and hot flashes during this phase. At this point, you may begin to feel the urge to push. Do not push until your physician tells you that it's time to push.
Stage Four
The last stage of your labor is pushing and delivering your baby. MayoClinic.com states that it may take a few minutes or several hours or more to deliver your baby. You will experience 45 to 90 second contractions every three to five minutes. The need to push becomes urgent at this time. Choose a birthing position that is comfortable for you and push down to move the baby forward. Your baby's head will crown, and eventually you'll be told to slow your pushing and pant as your baby emerges from your vagina. Once your baby is born you must deliver the placenta. Most women experience mild contractions for five to 30 minutes as the uterus pushes out the placenta. At this point, your health care provider will make sure you're bleeding is under control, examine the placenta to ensure it's intact and stitch up any tears.
