Labor is the body’s natural process of childbirth, lasting on average 12 to 24 hours for a first birth. It occurs in three stages:
- First Stage of Labor:
- Early or Latent Labor: Mild contractions occur every 15 to 20 minutes, gradually becoming more regular and intense. The cervix dilates from 0 to 6 centimeters. This phase can last hours to days, so it’s recommended to stay comfortable at home.
- Active Phase: Lasting about 4 to 8 hours, contractions become stronger (every 3 minutes, lasting about 45 seconds). The cervix dilates from 6 to 8 centimeters, and this is typically when you go to the hospital.
- Transition Phase: The most intense part, lasting 15 minutes to an hour. The cervix dilates from 8 to 10 centimeters, with contractions 2 to 3 minutes apart lasting about 1 minute. You may feel pressure and an urge to push.
- Second Stage of Labor (Delivery):
- Begins when the cervix is fully dilated (10 centimeters) and ends with the birth of the baby. This stage may last 2 hours or more. Contractions are 2 to 5 minutes apart and last 60 to 90 seconds. It’s important to push only when instructed by your healthcare provider.
- Third Stage of Labor (Delivery of the Placenta):
- This stage begins after the baby is born and ends with the delivery of the placenta. It usually lasts a few minutes to 20 minutes, with less painful contractions.
