Stages of Labor
There are 3 stages of labor, from the time the contractions begin, until you are getting to know your new arrival. We have explained them in more detail below.
Stage One
This is the longest stage of labor, lasting up to 16 hours for women bearing their first born. For subsequent births, this stage is often shorter, ranging 6-7 hours. During the first stage of labor, you will begin experiencing light contractions that may be up to 20 minutes apart. Throughout the contractions, your uterus is effacing. Stage one doesn't end until the uterus is 100% effaced. There are 3 phases to Stage One labor.
- Early Phase
During the early phase, you will experience irregular contractions as you dilate from 0-4 centimeters. The pain experienced in this phase is comparable to that of menstrual cramps. Most women spend this stage of labor at home. The Early Phase can last as long as 8 hours.
- Active Phase
The active phase begins as your contractions become longer, stronger, and closer together. Remember, you need to measure your contractions when calling the doctor. He or she will want to know how long each contraction lasts, the intensity, and how far apart they are. If you will be using an epidural, it is administered during the Active Phase of labor.
- Transition Phase
Although it is the shortest phase of labor, it is definitely the most difficult. You will experience intense pain as your cervix dilates from 7 to 10 centimeters wide. There may also be a lot of pressure as the baby moves down into the birth canal. The good news is, it's baby time!