Stages of Labor
What to Expect during Labor & Delivery
There are few moments in life that compare to the birth of a child. For
a first-time mom, emotions may range from excitement to uncertainty; while
a woman who already has experienced labor may wonder how this pregnancy
will compare to her last. Whether you are a first-time mom or already
a mother of five, it is certain that no other experience in your life
will lead to as many emotions as the birth of your child.
Though every woman's experience will vary slightly depending on
her situation, there are three main stages that are involved in every
labor and delivery.
First Stage of Labor
Three phases comprise the first stage of labor: the early phase, the active
phase, and the transition phase. The entire first stage usually lasts
up to six or more hours, but may be shorter if you've previously
had a vaginal delivery.
The Early Phase — Although the labor process has technically begun once the early phase begins, you may prefer to relax at home at this point. Even if you are planning a hospital birth, you may wish to use this time to take a warm bath, read a magazine, or take a nap in the comfort of your home.
During the early phase, you will experience mild contractions that come every 10 to 20 minutes. At first these contractions may last up to 30 seconds. As you progress, the contractions will slowly increase to approximately every five minutes and last about 60 seconds each.
You will experience a mucous discharge from your vagina during this phase. Often referred to as the "bloody show," this discharge may include a small amount of blood, making the mucous appear pink. A pinkish cast to the discharge is normal, however if you are experiencing a great deal of blood loss, you should contact your doctor immediately.
Your cervix will dilate from approximately 0 to 3 centimeters at the end of the early phase.
The Active Phase — During the active phase your contractions will become more frequent and intense. They will occur approximately every three minutes and last up to 60 seconds. If you are planning a hospital birth and have remained at home until this point, you now should go to the hospital. If you are planning to be medicated to reduce the pain of labor, this is the phase when your doctor will give you pain medication, such as an epidural.
Your cervix will dilate from approximately 3 to 7 centimeters at the end of the active phase leading you into transition.
The Transition Phase — The last phase of the first
stage of labor is the transition phase. Contractions will become very
strong and come approximately every two to three minutes lasting up to
90 seconds. You may experience shaking, shivering and nausea during this
phase.
You will dilate to a full 10 centimeters during this phase and will soon
enter the second stage of labor.
Second Stage of Labor
The second stage—the actual delivery of your baby—may last anywhere from minutes to hours. First-time moms are usually in the second stage for approximately one hour, while women who have previously given birth may get through this stage in as little as 20 minutes. Keep in mind that an epidural may increase the duration of this phase.
Your contractions may become less frequent and might give you the urge to push at this point. Depending on your situation, your doctor may encourage you to push with each contraction to help speed the delivery. During this stage the doctor may perform an episiotomy—a small incision between the anus and the vagina—to enlarge the vaginal opening.
Your baby will eventually "crown" meaning the top of his or her head will appear. Once the baby's face appears, the doctor will suction his or her mouth and nose and feel around the neck for the umbilical cord. As your baby's shoulders deliver, you will be instructed to push to complete the delivery.
Your doctor will hold your baby upside down to prevent amniotic fluid, mucus and blood from getting into the baby's lungs. Your baby's mouth and nose may be suctioned to help remove any additional fluid. The umbilical cord will then be cut.
Third Stage of Labor
The third stage of labor typically does not last much longer than 30 minutes.
Shortly after your baby is delivered, you may begin to feel contractions again. Your doctor will ask you to push again to help expel the placenta.
You may experience chills and shaking at this point. Ask for a warm blanket to help you relax and enjoy time with your new baby!
