Three Stages of Labor: Baby, It’s Time!

Are you soon-to-be mama? Amazing feeling, right?

However, as you begin approaching your due date, you may feel a mixture of emotions, including uncertainty, excitement, anxiousness, and fear. Several people like your friends, co-workers, physicians, or the midwife may have shared with you, “Every woman’s labor is unique.”

While these voices may leave you wondering (especially if it is your first), knowing how your labor and delivery process is going to go will help prepare you for the big day!

Most women go through the three stages of labor known as cervix dilation, birth, and placenta delivery. Each stage has its own set of estimated timelines and symptoms.

Here is what to expect in each of the three stages of labor so you can approach your due date feeling confident and prepared for what’s to come.

STAGE ONE: Your Cervix Dilates to 10 centimeters

Stage one is the longest stage when your cervix is dilated to 10 centimeters. It can take six to 36 hours (it can be even longer for first-time moms). Since it is the longest stage, it’s broken into early, active, and transitional phases.

• Early Labor: Your cervix will dilate up to four to six centimeters. You will begin to experience mild, irregular contractions similar to period cramps. Sometimes a thick, stringy discharge of your mucus plug begins a few days before. Early labor can last several hours to several days. You should relax as much as possible, practice breathing techniques, and take a warm shower bath if required.

• Active Labor: Your cervix will dilate from six centimeters up to 10 centimeters. You will feel your contractions getting stronger and more regular. You might also experience significant cramping, back pain, and nausea. If your pain is unbearable, you can ask for pain medication or anesthesia.

• Transition: The transition phase is the most intense phase that typically lasts between 15 to 60 minutes and is characterized by intense contractions lasting 60 to 90 seconds. You should inform your healthcare team if you feel the need to push. They will direct you to wait or tell you when it’s time to enter the second stage of labor–giving birth to your baby.
  
  

STAGE TWO: Baby Arrives

Once your cervix is dilated to 10 centimeters, it’s time to deliver your baby. The healthcare team will inform you when it’s time to push. It can take up to a few hours to push your baby out. As soon as the baby is out, the team will clear your baby’s airway and place your baby on your chest. Your healthcare team will cut the umbilical cord and encourage you to try breastfeeding the baby for the first time. Most babies will nurse minutes after birth, but others will wait longer, so don’t panic.

STAGE THREE: The Placenta is Delivered

After your baby is delivered, your uterus will continue to contract to deliver your placenta. Stage three is the final stage and approximately takes five to 15 minutes.

Finally, your baby is here, and the wait is over!