Briefly discuss the three stages of labor.

Question

What will be an ideal response?

Answer 1

First-stage labor begins with the regular contractions of the muscles of the uterus, which causes the effacement and dilation of the cervix. This stage can last anywhere from 2 to 24 hours and is divided into three stages:

a. Early first stage: Contractions are far apart with perhaps 15 to 20 minutes between them and last between 45 seconds to a minute.
b. Late first stage: The cervix dilates 2 to 3 inches, and contractions are more frequent and more intense.
c. Transition phase: The final dilation of the cervix from 8 to 10 centimeters takes place, and contractions are very strong and painful.
Second-stage labor begins when the cervix is fully dilated and the baby's head begins to move into the vagina. During this stage, many women feel the urge to push, which may help in pushing the baby out. Once the head is visible at the vaginal entrance many physicians perform an episiotomy. Once the baby is eased out of the mother's body, the umbilical cord is clamped and cut off.

 

During third-stage labor, the placenta detaches from the walls of the uterus and the afterbirth is expelled. The episiotomy and/or any tears are sewn up. This stage may last a few minutes to an hour.