Stages of Labor
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Stage Two
This is the stage of your labor in which the baby is born. Stage two can last up to 2 hours. You may feel like you are having a bowel movement, but it is very important not to push until you are instructed to do so. Pushing before the right time can cause swelling in the uterus. Crowning occurs when the widest part of the baby's head appears, just a few more pushes and your baby will be here! Immediately afterwards, fluid and mucus are removed from baby's nose and mouth with a syringe and he will take his first breath. Also, during this time, the doctors, or the father will cut the umbilical cord. Once all this is complete, you can finally meet the little joy that you have worked so hard for.
Stage Three
Stage three is the shortest and likely the easiest stage of labor. Once the baby is born, you will need to deliver the placenta. Your contractions may have stopped already, but they will resume so that you can complete the birth. After this, you are all done! You will now be monitored for contractions and to make sure there is no excessive bleeding. The only thing you have to do now is get to know your new son or daughter.
