Labor and Birth: Stages of Labor

Labor is typically divided into three stages. How long each woman will spend at each stage varies widely. Some women go from early labor to birth in just a few hours while others take a few days.  Knowing what to expect during each part can help take some of the mystery out of the birth process.

Stage One: Early Labor, Active Labor, Transition

In early labor you’re contractions are noticeable, but not painful. If your pregnancy is free of complications, you will most likely spend this stage of labor at home. You can probably continue with normal household activities, at least for awhile. This is a great time to get some sleep, if you can and of course to make sure everything is ready for the baby. Remember to stay hydrated.

Active labor begins when your contractions are about a minute long and coming five minutes apart. During the first part of active labor your cervix will dilate from about four centimeters to about eight centimeters. You will make your journey to the hospital or birth center at the start of active labor. During this time, your contractions will become stronger and you will probably need to use some of the coping strategies you learned in your Labor and Birth class. If you are having an epidural, you will probably get it during this stage.

Transition is for most women, the most difficult part of labor. During this time, your cervix is dilating from eight to ten centimeters. Contractions will be intense lasting a minute or more and coming two or three minutes apart. Fortunately, for most women transition does not last more than a couple hours.

Stage Two: Pushing and Birth

Stage two begins when your cervix is fully dilated. Your contractions will change. They will feel differently and last longer. They will also slow to every two to five minutes. You will also have a strong urge to push with each contraction. Pushing is hard work, so try to rest between contractions. If you are very tired, you may even fall asleep for a minute or two. Some women are able to push a baby out in just a few contractions, but for others it can take hours. If you need an episiotomy, it will happen at this stage. The second stage ends with the birth of your baby.

Stage Three: Placenta

After your baby is born the placenta separates from the uterus. The stage ends when the placenta is delivered. This usually takes from five to twenty minutes. During this time you can let your healthcare providers deal with the placenta, stitching up your episiotomy (if you had one), and cleaning up while you enjoy your first few minutes with your new baby.

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