3 Vital Stages Of Labor: What Happens In Them And What To Do

Knowing about the stages can help you be prepared for the process.

Reviewed by Jules Brooks, Doula Jules Brooks Jules BrooksDoula MomJunction on Facebook Specialty: Calmbirth practitioner, DoulaExperience: 20 years
Written by , MSc shreeja pillai MSc Follow MomJunction on Linkedin Specialty: Pharma and HealthExperience: 2.5 years
Edited by , BSc Rebecca Malachi BSc Follow MomJunction on Linkedin Specialty: Pregnancy, Health and WellnessExperience: 12 years
Fact-checked by , M.Pharm, PhD Dr. Joyani Das M.Pharm, PhD Follow MomJunction on Linkedin Specialty: Pharma, Health and WellnessExperience: 3.5 years
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Different Stages Of Childbirth

Image: ShutterStock

As is common knowledge, labor pain during vaginal birth is characterized by strong uterine contractions. Women who have undergone labor may have told you about their experiences of the pain involved and the associated difficulties. Knowing the details of the vital stages of labor may prove useful in making you better prepared for what is to come.

Labor pain is divided into three stages: early labor, active labor, and transition. Read this article to learn more about what happens during these stages and what you can do to make your labor easier and more comfortable.

In This Article

Stages Of Labor

Labor progresses in three stages. Let’s see what they are (1):

  1. The first stage: This is the longest part of labor and the latent phase may last up to 20 hours. It begins with the onset of the true contractions and lasts until the cervix is dilated to 10cm.
  1. The second stage: It lasts from cervical dilation until the delivery of the baby.
  1. The third stage: The process of childbirth ends with the delivery of the placenta.
Delivery, Vital stages of labor

Image: Shutterstock


protip_icon Quick tip
If your labor begins at night, remember that there is no need to rush to the hospital, instead, try to get some sleep. If you are unable to sleep, engage yourself in light activities around the house, such as cleaning your closet (3).

Stage 1 Of Labor

This stage marks the onset of the labor contractions that cause the cervix to soften and dilate.

Complete effacement is required for a smooth vaginal delivery. It involves three phases, namely early labor, active labor, and transition phase.

Vital stages of labor, stage 1 of labor

Image: courtesy: National Women’s Health, Auckland District Health Board

Vivian, a mother and a blogger, shares her early labor experience, saying, “Week 36 came along, I was doing things around my home, stopped mid-walk to handle the pain of a contraction, and felt a sudden small gush of water. I stood in shock, uncertain of if my water broke or not. Immediately, we packed up the kids, took them to their designated places, and rushed over to the hospital. Once the doctors came in, I was informed that everything was fine, and although some of my water had come out, the rupture had resealed itself. This meant I was not currently in active labor and could go home (i).”

For your convenience, we’ve provided an explanation of the three phases in the first stage of labor:

Phases in stage 1 of laborWhat’s happeningWhat you can do
Early labor
  • When you think you are in true labor, start timing your contraction. You can write down the time when each contraction starts and stops.
  • Mild contractions begin 15-20 minutes apart and last 30-40 seconds.
  • Several hormonal and physical changes might indicate the start of your labor.
  • The cervix starts to efface and dilate to 4cm (1). The mucus plug, which has been blocking the cervical passage and protecting the uterus from any infection throughout the pregnancy, is now discharged.
  • The contractions will start in an irregular pattern and last for 30-60 seconds coming every 5-20 minutes (2).
  • Once the gap between two consecutive contractions reaches five minutes, it means the labor is established.
  • As the cervix begins to dilate, you will notice a slight pink or bloody discharge from the vagina.
  • Lower back pain, loose bowel movements, and pressure in the pelvic area are other symptoms during this phase.
  • The amniotic sac can rupture at any time during the first stage.
  • This phase can last for hours or even days.
  • Call the doctor to know what to do.
  • Distract yourself by watching television or playing games.
  • Try to sleep by changing positions.
  • Take a bath or shower if the water has not broken.
  • Have snacks to build your energy reserve.
  • Empty your bowel as often as you can.
  • Get a massage of neck and shoulder done to relieve the tension.
  • Drink enough fluids – a few glasses of water or juice.
  • You may take pain killers such as paracetamol if needed.
Active labor
  • The cervix continues to dilate from 4-7cm (3).
  • The contractions get closer, regular and stronger. They occur every 3-5 minutes and last for about 60 seconds.
  • The water will break with a gush of fluid, and this speeds up contractions.
  • This phase will last for 3-5 hours.
  • It is the time to proceed to the hospital.
  • Seek help from your partner and mother.
  • Get a massage done on the lower back.
  • Practice breathing techniques.
  • Change positions while sleeping.
  • Sit comfortably using pillows.
  • Keep drinking water to hydrate yourself.
  • Walking, standing, and sitting upright can help progress the labor.
Transition
  • The cervix now dilates from 7-10cm.
  • The contractions get longer, stronger, and intense and last for 60-90 seconds, coming in every 2-3 minutes.
  • This is the shortest yet the most challenging phase.
  • You are likely to have hot flashes, chills, vomiting, nausea, and gas during this phase.
  • Continue with breathing exercises.
  • Have your partner by your side to support you during the contractions.

When to call the doctor?

Call your doctor or obstetrician right away if:

  • The water breaks.
  • Abdominal pain gets severe and constant.
  • The baby’s movement slows down or stops.
  • You have bright red vaginal bleeding, which is not normal.

Stage 2 Of Labor

The second stage involves pushing the baby into the birthing canal and eventually delivering. This stage progresses as follows:

  • The cervix is fully dilated (10cm) by this time.
  • This stage lasts for 30 minutes to two hours in the first-time mothers (4). Epidural can also prolong the length of the second stage of labor.
  • Contractions get longer and stronger.

The pushing phase:

During this phase, the natural urge to push gets stronger. Along with that, you may also experience (5):

  • Increased pressure in the perineum, rectum, and lower back.
  • A strong bowel pressure.
  • A burning or stretching feeling in the vagina due to crowning (the baby’s head moving down). At this stage, the woman is asked to stop pushing so that the perineum stretches gradually.
  • Usually, there is a wait for the next contraction, then the baby is born.
  • The baby comes out, usually with the head first.

What you can do:

Try squatting

Image: Shutterstock

  • Try different positions — squatting, lying on your side with your leg up or resting on your hands and knees.
  • Take deep breaths before and after each contraction.
  • Curl into push as much as possible, this allows all of your muscles to work.
  • Concentrate on the contractions and take a break in between.
  • Try different positions while sitting, standing, or walking.
  • If you get hot flashes, use a cold face washer.
  • Keep yourself hydrated by taking fluids.

Stage 3 Of Labor

After the baby is born, the placenta is delivered in the third stage.

  • The average time of the third stage of labor is six minutes (6).
  • Labor stimulation, analgesia during labor, and cord drainage could prolong the phase.
  • The contractions begin 5-10 minutes after childbirth and are mild and less painful.
  • The vagina feels fuller as the placenta passes through.
  • Chills and shivering are common while you are delivering the placenta.

protip_icon Things to know
During the third stage of labor, your doctor may massage your uterus through the abdomen to help it contract and reduce bleeding (1).

What you can do:

  • Stay relaxed.
Start breastfeeding after delivery

Image: Shutterstock

  • Ask the doctor, if you wish to see the placenta.
  • Begin breastfeeding your baby after the delivery.

What Happens After Labor?

After the delivery of the baby, i.e, postpartum, the placenta is expelled from the uterus. If the placenta fails to come out after 30 minutes of childbirth, the condition is known as retained placenta and may be harmful for the mother. The medical personnel may assist you by injecting drugs such as Syntocinon (7).

In case of any tears in the vaginal area, the doctor will place the stitches by giving local anesthesia. This anesthesia will be given only if you did not get one during labor (1).

protip_icon Quick fact
Novocain is the usual choice of anesthesia before placing the stitches. These stitches are absorbed by the skin and need not be removed later (1).

Frequently Asked Questions

1. At what stage of labor is epidural given?

Epidural is given when you are 4-5cm dilated and have regular contractions. However, an epidural can slow down the contractions. In this case, Picotin will be given to speed up the labor.

2. What does it feel like when I start to dilate?

As the cervix dilates, it becomes softer. You can insert a finger into the vaginal opening that feels like soft lips. While doing this, you may probably feel the head of your baby.

3. Which stage of labor is the longest and how long does it last for?

The duration of labor varies from woman to woman. The first stage of labor is usually the longest and for the first time moms, it may last from 6-20 hours. However, in those who have had babies earlier, this stage could be quite shorter lasting for 2-10 hours. Moreover, if the cervix is not dilated properly or the fetus is not in the optimal position, then it is certain that the labor will get prolonged.

4. Do I have to get a cut or episiotomy?

You may experience a perineal tear, which could be sutured by your midwife or doctor. You might also have an episiotomy, if necessary, while pushing. An episiotomy is a procedure in which a small incision is made in the second stage of labor to quickly enlarge the opening for the baby to pass through. It should only done in an urgent situation to make the opening wider for the baby. The incision begins at the posterior fourchette and travels laterally, right or left, at a 45 to 60-degree angle to avoid injure to the anal spincture muscles. This will help in the delivery of your baby and prevent large irregular tears of vaginal walls (8).

5. What are the potential complications of labor and delivery?

Complications during labor and delivery may include labor not progressing, perineal tears, wrapping of the umbilical cord in baby’s neck or limbs, abnormal fetal heart rate, perinatal asphyxia (fetus not getting enough oxygen), shoulder dystocia (baby’s shoulder getting stuck during delivery, and excessive bleeding (9).

6. What is the significance of the baby’s position in labor?

The cephalic presentation or the head down position of the baby is considered most suitable for delivery as it is easier and safer for the baby to pass through the birth canal (10).

7. What is the purpose of oxytocin during labor?

Oxytocin is the key hormone that stimulates uterine contractions during labor. Plasma oxytocin concentrations gradually increase during the first and second stages of labor with a surge at birth (11). The hormone may also be injected to increase uterine activity if the labor fails to progress (12).

The three stages of labor are vital. Call your doctor promptly if you experience abdominal pain or vaginal bleeding during the first stage. The second stage is the pushing phase, where the baby starts coming out through the birthing canal. In the third stage, the childbirth ends, and the placenta is delivered. After labor, the doctor injects medications to stop the blood loss and stitches the vaginal area if there are any tears. Labor is associated with certain discomforts; however, staying calm, distracting yourself, and drinking fluids may ease the process.

Infographic: What Happens During Different Stages Of Labor?

Now that your pregnancy term is over, you may go into labor at any time to welcome your little angel to the world. It is a three-stage process and may make you feel worried. However, knowing about things you would experience during these stages may help you prepare yourself mentally. The following infographic explains a few important points about each stage of labor.

what to expect during stages of labor (infographic)

Illustration: Momjunction Design Team

Key Pointers

  • Childbirth has three stages: the first stage of labor, the second stage of labor, and the third stage of labor.
  • During the first stage of labor, contractions begin and the cervix begins to dilate.
  • The second stage of labor lasts from 30 minutes to 2 hours and is characterized by a fully dilated cervix and contractions that are stronger and more prolonged.
  • In the pushing phase, the pregnant woman will begin to push along with the contractions, and the baby is born.
  • In the third stage of labor, which lasts an average of six minutes, the placenta is delivered.
Vital Stages Of Labor_illustration

Image: Dall·E/MomJunction Design Team

This informative video is all about the stages of labor and how to prepare for childbirth. Discover the physical and emotional changes that occur during labor and delivery.

Personal Experience: Source

MomJunction articles include first-hand experiences to provide you with better insights through real-life narratives. Here are the sources of personal accounts referenced in this article.

i. My birth experience — I thought i knew what to expect, i was wrong.
https://medium.com/@vivianwriting/birth-i-thought-i-knew-what-to-expect-i-was-wrong-f8d953773516

References

MomJunction's articles are written after analyzing the research works of expert authors and institutions. Our references consist of resources established by authorities in their respective fields. You can learn more about the authenticity of the information we present in our editorial policy.
  1. Stages of Labor.
    https://www.bidmc.org/centers-and-departments/obstetrics-and-gynecology/programs-and-services/pregnancy/labor-and-delivery/stages-of-labor
  2. What are the stages of labor.
    https://www.nichd.nih.gov/health/topics/labor-delivery/topicinfo/stages
  3. First Stage of Labor.
    https://americanpregnancy.org/healthy-pregnancy/labor-and-birth/first-stage-of-labor/
  4. Overview of Labor.
    https://www.stanfordchildrens.org/en/topic/default?id=overview-of-labor-90-P02896
  5. Stages of labour.
    https://www.thewomens.org.au/health-information/pregnancy-and-birth/labour-birth/stages-of-labour
  6. Mahboubeh Taebi et al.; (2012); The duration of the third stage of labor and related factors.
    https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC3696975/
  7. Retained placenta.
    https://americanpregnancy.org/healthy-pregnancy/labor-and-birth/retained-placenta/
  8. Kyle Barjon and Heba Mahdy; (2021); Episiotomy.
    https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK546675/
  9. What are some common complications during labor and delivery?
    https://www.nichd.nih.gov/health/topics/labor-delivery/topicinfo/complications
  10. Your baby in the birth canal.
    https://medlineplus.gov/ency/article/002060.htm#
  11. Kerstin Uvnäs-Moberg et al.; (2019); Maternal plasma levels of oxytocin during physiological childbirth – a systematic review with implications for uterine contractions and central actions of oxytocin.
    https://bmcpregnancychildbirth.biomedcentral.com/articles/10.1186/s12884-019-2365-9
  12. Pedro Hidalgo-Lopezosa et al.; (2016); Labor stimulation with oxytocin: effects on obstetrical and neonatal outcomes.
    https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC4982443/#
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Jules Brooks
Jules BrooksDoula
Jules Brooks is a childbirth educator and a doula with 20 years of experience. She is a Calmbirth practitioner and believes that a woman’s body has the ability to give birth naturally. A mother of three teenagers, she herself had a cesarean section, followed by two natural births.

Read full bio of Jules Brooks
shreeja pillai
shreeja pillaiMSc
Shreeja holds a postgraduate degree in Chemistry and diploma in Drug Regulatory Affairs from the University of Mumbai. Before joining MomJunction, she worked as a research analyst with a leading multinational pharmaceutical company.

Read full bio of shreeja pillai
Rebecca Malachi
Rebecca MalachiBSc
Rebecca is a pregnancy writer and editor with a passion for delivering research-based and engaging content in areas of fertility, pregnancy, birth, and post-pregnancy. She did her graduation in Biotechnology and Genetics from Loyola Academy, Osmania University and obtained a certification in ‘Nutrition and Lifestyle in Pregnancy’ from Ludwig Maximilian University of Munich (LMU).

Read full bio of Rebecca Malachi
Dr. Joyani Das
Dr. Joyani DasM.Pharm, PhD
Dr. Joyani Das did her post-graduation from Birla Institute of Technology, Mesra and PhD in Pharmacology. Previously, she worked as an associate professor, faculty of Pharmacology, for two years. With her research background in preclinical studies and a zeal for scientific writing, she joined MomJunction as a health writer.

Read full bio of Dr. Joyani Das