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Stage
The birth of your child is a special and unique experience. No two deliveries are identical, and
there is no way to predict how your specific delivery is going to go. However, you can know the
stages of the birth process and what to generally expect.
Childbirth usually occurs in three stages:
First stage: The time of the onset of true labor until the cervix is completely dilated to 10 cm.
Second stage: The period after the cervix is dilated to 10 cm until the baby is delivered.
Third stage: Delivery of the placenta.
Early Labor Phase The time of the onset of labor until the cervix is dilated to 3 cm.
Active Labor Phase Continues from 3 cm. until the cervix is dilated to 7 cm.
Transition Phase Continues from 7 cm. until the cervix is fully dilated to 10 cm.
Each phase is characterized by different emotions and physical challenges. Think of it as a big
adventure with some important guidelines.
Contractions will last about 30-45 seconds, giving you 5-30 minutes of rest between
contractions
Contractions are typically mild and somewhat irregular, but become progressively
stronger and more frequent
Contractions can feel like aching in your lower back, menstrual cramps, and
pressure/tightening in the pelvic area
Your water might break this is known as amniotic sac rupture and can happen any time
within the first stage of labor
Lasting longer
When your water breaks (amniotic sac rupture), note the following:
Color of fluid
Odor of fluid
Be a calming influence
Contractions during this phase will last about 45-60 seconds with 3-5 minutes rest in
between
Keep track of the contractions (if she is being monitored, find out how the machine
works)
Help make her comfortable (prop pillows, get her water, apply touch)
Remind her to change positions frequently (go with her on a walk or offer her a bath)
Provide distractions from labor such as music, reading a book, or playing a simple card
game
Dont think that there is something wrong if she is not responding to you
Transition Phase
What to do:
During this phase the mother will rely heavily on her support person. This is the most
challenging phase, but it is also the shortest. Try to think one contraction at a time (this may be
hard to do if the contractions are very close together). Remember how far you have already
come, and when you feel an urge to push, tell your health care provider.
What to expect:
Contractions during this phase will last about 60-90 seconds with a 30 second-2 minute
rest in between
Dont think that there is something wrong if she seems to be angry it is a normal part of
transition