NORMAL LABOR AND DELIVERY
The purpose of labor is to remove the baby from inside the womb (uterus) to the outside world through the vaginal canal. Labor consists of rhythmic, progressively stronger uterine contractions that produce the thinning and dilation of the cervix. With the onset of labor, or shortly thereafter, the "bag of water" breaks.
Labor is divided into three stages. In general, the course of labor is quicker in women who have had previous vaginal deliveries.
First Stage of Labor
- Begins with the thinning (effacement) and dilation (opening) of the cervix.
- Ends when the cervix is 100% effaced and completely dilated (10 cm).
Durations of labor:
- For first-time mothers-an average of 13 hours
- For mothers with previous vaginal deliveries-an average of 7-8 hours
Second Stage of Labor
- Begins with complete, cervical dilation and effacement
- Ends with the birth of the baby
- This is the stage where the mother "pushes" during contractions
Third Stage of Labor
- Begins with the delivery of the baby
- Ends with the delivery of the placenta
How do I know when labor starts?
There are usually three events that occur signaling labor:
- Uterine Contractions begin and continue at regular intervals. They get stronger and occur closer together over time. At term, first-time mothers will often be informed to contact their doctors when contractions are four to five minutes apart. Mothers with previous vaginal deliveries may be told to contact their doctors when contractions are about ten minutes apart.
- The bloody show occurs. This event is painless, vaginal bleeding that contains mucus. It can happen before or at the time of labor. Have the doctor discuss what is considered a normal amount of bleeding during this time.
- Spontaneous Rupture of Membranes. Many people refer to this event as the "bag of waters" breaking. The baby grows and develops inside this bag, which contains amniotic fluid. This sac breaks and the fluid leaks out the cervix and down through the vagina. It can be a gush or a steady leak of fluid. Women are advised to contact their doctors when this event happens.
Pre-term Labor
Labor that begins before the end of 36 weeks of pregnancy is considered pre-term labor. Uterine contractions and cervical thinning occur too soon. If not prevented or stopped, pre-term labor can lead to the delivery of a premature baby (between 22 and 37 weeks). These infants will need special care. Discuss this topic with the doctor in order to the recognize signs and symptoms.
Things to Consider During Labor
Return to Educational Topics
