THE STAGES OF LABOR

• The first stage of labor is composed of three phases. At the early phase, contraction occurs 15 to 20 minutes apart and dilation of the cervix is about 4 centimeters. Next come the active phase in which contractions are shorter at about 3 to 5 minutes apart. The cervix now dilates from 4 to 8 centimeters. The last phase is the transition phase, which occurs between 8 to 10 centimeters of dilation. Effacement has already progressed at the end of the final phase of the first stage.

• When the cervix is fully expanded and the woman feels a need to push the baby. She has reaches the second stage of labor. This stage is ended dramatically with the birth of the baby. Usually the crown of the head comes first, followed by the shoulders and body.

• The baby is delivered. At the third stage, the placenta is also delivered. It separates from the uterine wall and is expelled through the vagina. The placenta usually comes out 3 to 5 minutes after the infant has been delivered.