Although every pregnancy and delivery are unique, there are traditional stages of labor that occur during the birth process.  Understanding these stages can help you cope with the range of emotions you’re sure to feel during labor – from euphoria to exhaustion.

Prior to actual labor, your body will go through subtle changes designed to prepare for labor. A backache, slight cramping or abdominal pain are all part of getting ready for the birth. 

Stage 1 – Contractions and Dilating

In this stage, you may experience mild contractions that are anywhere from five to 30 minutes apart. You may also notice a backache, mild diarrhea, and will probably be very excited. During this time, it’s fine to walk around, take a shower and begin relaxation breathing.  It’s a good idea to keep track of how far apart your contractions are and how long they last and give the information to the nurse or doctor at the hospital. Once the contractions are steady, it’s time to go to the hospital. Between 4 to 7 centimeters, the baby is actively trying to get in position to be born. Most women report feeling more back pain and stronger contractions, as well as the desire to focus entirely on the labor process.  Upon full dilation, the cervix is open to 10 centimeters. The baby is applying pressure to the mother’s bottom area and you may have an overwhelming desire to push.  Do not push until the medical team gives you the OK. You can use breathing excercises to hang on until that time.

Stage 2 – Delivery

The urge to push is very strong now and once the go-ahead is given from the medical team, most women feel a sense of purpose in pushing.  You are now an active participant in the birthing process.  Try to rest between contractions in order to have the energy required to push the baby out.  Many women get a “second wind” prior to delivery to help them through this stage of labor.  Your medical team will guide you through the process of pushing and successfully delivering your baby.

Stage 3 – The Placenta

What? More contractions? This often comes as a surprise to first-time moms. Once the baby is born, the placenta, the baby’s nourishment for the past nine months, needs to come out also. It usually comes out on its own within 20 minutes of the baby’s delivery. Uterine contractions will help expel it.  Your physician will examine your vagina and perineum for any tearing, and make repairs as necessary. Your nurse may massage your uterus and check it frequently over the next several hours to make sure it is firm and there is no excessive bleeding. 

Your baby’s medical team will thoroughly check your baby, suction its mouth and nose, and clean him or her up to be presented to the awaiting family.

The work is hard, but in the end, so rewarding. Congratulations!