The Stages of Labor

Most women fear labor and some childbirth experts believe that fear is the main cause of pain during childbirth. One way to alleviate some fear is to educate yourself on what happens during labor. The theory is that if you know what is about to happen and know that what you are experiencing is normal, you are better equipped to deal with the roller coaster that is labor and delivery.

First Stage

The first stage of labor can be divided into two stages within itself- early first stage and active labor. During the early part of labor, contractions may be regular but they can be mild. You may find it's easiest to go about your daily activities or distract yourself with a hobby. Be sure to eat healthy snacks and drink plenty of water so that you have the strength and stamina for the later stages of labor.

Active labor is a bit more intense. This is the part when your body works the hardest, getting your cervix dilated to 10 centimeters. The contractions begin to be uncomfortable, then painful. Active labor can last up to 8 hours. During this phase you will make your way to the birthing facility or your midwife will arrive at your home. You will probably want to employ some method of pain relief such as soaking in water, massage, or medication.

Toward the end of this stage you will probably experience something called transition. This occurs when you are just about ready to enter the second stage of labor. For some women, transition can result in a panicked feeling. Many women claim they are finished and want to stop, but many care providers see these emotional changes as an indicator that it's just about time for the baby to be born.

Second Stage

The second stage is when you get to push your baby out. Some women find that this process is painless and even satisfying, though most everyone experiences the "ring of fire" as the baby's head emerges. During this phase it may be helpful to stand, squat or get onto your hands and knees for a more natural birthing position. These alternative positions employ a bit of gravity to help baby out more easily. Once your baby's head has emerged, the rest of his or her body will come out easily. As long as you both are healthy, your baby will probably be laid on your chest.

Third Stage

During the third stage of labor, you will push out the placenta. This can take anywhere from 5-30 minutes. You will continue to have contractions and your care provider will ask you to push the placenta out. You will be bleeding during this time. If the bleeding is excessive, you may be given a shot of pitocin to help your uterus contract. If stitches are needed, you will be given a local anesthetic prior to the stitching.

Source:

http://www.mayoclinic.com/health/stages-of-labor/PR00106/NSECTIONGROUP=2