Knowing the Stages of Labor

Labor can be compared to running a marathon. Although it is intense, it helps to know what stage of labor you are in and what is happening next. This way, you can begin to mentally prepare yourself for what you are about to experience and learn how to cope during each stage. 

Pre-labor

Prelabor is the period of time before labor actually begins. Although contractions may be intense, the contractions do not progress the dilation of the cervix. It is important to recognize the difference between Prelabor and Labor to avoid prematurely going to the hospital or birth center. 

Contractions during this period are usually shorter, less frequent and less intense than during labor and are non-progressing. These contractions are also known as Braxton-Hicks contractions. 

The First Stage (Dilation Stage) 

During the dilation stage also known as labor, the cervix softens (effaces) and dilates (opens) completely to about 10cm. Contractions progress throughout this stage. This stage contains 3 phases: early, active and transitional labor.

Early Labor Phase (0-4cm) 

Many women will try to labor at home for as long as possible to help to avoid going to the hospital too early, knowing that there is a possibility that they may be sent home. This is a good time to move around, eat and drink fluids. Over time contractions will get stronger. The pregnant person is sensible and clear headed. This is also a good time to contact your caregiver and doula and let them know what is going on. 

Active Labor Phase (4-7cm) 

Active labor is around the time where you should get to a hospital, birth center or make sure that your midwife and/ or doula are present. The progression of labor speeds up and the pregnant person draws more focus into their labor. Contractions will be around 3-4 minutes apart and they will last about a minute. Your cervix will likely dilate faster than the previous phase. 

By now, your water may break or be broken by a medical professional and the contractions may become more frequent. This is the part where partner support becomes extremely important. Pain management techniques include: 

• position changes

• using birth ball

• massages

• deep breathing

• affirmations

• music

• hot and cold towels

• laboring in water

Transitional Labor Phase (7-10cm) 

This phase is the transition into the second stage of labor, the birthing phase. These contractions are extremely intense and mom will begin to feel a lot of pressure. This is usually the most difficult part of labor for most because the contractions are at maximum intensity. Mom may feel exhausted but she is very close to meeting her baby! 

This phase of labor comes with contractions that are long and intense, lasting 1-2 minutes and coming every 2-3 minutes. Once the cervix has dilated to about 10 cm, the second stage of birth begins. 

The Second Stage (The Birthing Stage)

This is the pushing and birthing stage where the baby is born. The cervix is now completely dilated and the baby is ready to rotate and push through the birth canal. You will either feel an urge to push or your provider will tell you when to push. 

The Resting Phase

This phase may not happen in all women but it is good to identify it if it happens to you. The resting phase is a brief pause in labor after the head pushes through the uterus. The uterus then takes time to tighten around the body of the baby, preparing to push the rest of the baby out. 

The Descent Phase 

In this phase the mother feels an intense urge to push and the uterus continues with strong contractions pushing the baby down. At this point, the baby’s head can be seen but slips back up in between pushes. 

The Crowning Phase 

During the last stage of this phase, you can see the baby’s head and it no longer slips back during pauses. At the end of this phase the baby is born! 

The Third Stage (The Placental Stage) 

After the baby arrives, mom’s body's work is far from done. The hormone oxytocin is released when mom and baby meet, helping the uterus contract to push out the placenta. The uterus continues to contract to invoke the delivery of the placenta (afterbirth). The uterus separates from the uterine wall and then is expelled. 

The Fourth Stage (The Rest & Recovery Stage) 

Now is the time to recover, rest and bond with your baby. Mom and babies' bodies spend time stabilizing. Skin to skin contact is extremely important while the baby's body is transitioning from the womb to the world. This is a good time to attempt nursing and to bond with your child after the long process. 

Every stage has indicators and knowing them can help you mentally prepare for the next step. Mom’s should stay confident in themselves and trust the birth process!