The stages of labour

It’s completely normal to feel some anxiety in addition to the anticipation of the upcoming birth of your baby. Especially if you are giving birth for the first time. But even the second and every subsequent birth will also be a one-of-a-kind experience.  In order to face this experience with more composure, it is helpful to know the different stages of labour. Professionals usually divide birth into three stages. Each stage has its own features and challenges, as well as its own wonders.

The dilation stage

The dilation stage is the longest phase and usually lasts between 8 and 14 hours for first-time mums. It begins with the first regular contractions and ends when the cervix is fully dilated (approx. 10 cm).

• Early stage: in the early stage, your contractions are still irregular and not very strong. This phase can take from a few hours to one or more days. You can move without any problem and speak normally.

• Active phase: your contractions will become more regular, stronger and longer-lasting. At this point, try to move around, try out different birthing positions and use the breathing techniques you have learnt. This can give you some relief. The active phase usually lasts between four and eight hours.

• Transitional labour stage: the contractions are now very strong and come in short intervals. You are now in the most intense, but also the shortest phase. Your cervix will now fully open. It’s normal for you to feel tired and a bit desperate. But remember, you’re on the home stretch now. Soon it will be over and you’ll finally get the chance to hold your baby in your arms.

The expulsion phase

during the expulsion phase, your baby is pushed through the birth canal and born. This phase begins when the cervix is fully open and ends with the birth of your little darling.

• Passive stage: your cervix is now fully dilated to 10 cm and your baby rotates through the pelvis and birth canal. In this phase, you don’t yet feel an urge to push. This occurs only during the active phase with the pressure contractions.
• Pushing stage: your body now tells you that it’s time to push. This reflex is so strong that you can hardly resist it. Listen to your body and follow the instructions of your midwife or physician. Different birthing positions can help you to use the pressure effectively. First, the head of your baby becomes visible (crowning), then the shoulders and finally the rest of the body. This can take from a few minutes up to an hour.

The afterbirth stage

The afterbirth phase begins as soon as your baby is born and ends with the expulsion of the placenta. This procedure usually happens 10 to 30 minutes after delivery. During this time, you will probably only feel slight contractions.

Examination

Your midwife or doctor will now check whether the placenta has been completely expelled and whether there are any birth injuries that need to be treated.

Emotions and support

During the entire labour process, it is important to feel supported and understood. Your labour companion should help you to relax and encourage you. Trusting in your body and the people around you is crucial.

The stages of labour in brief

• Dilation phase: start of regular contractions until the cervix is fully dilated.
• Expulsion phase: pushing and giving birth to the baby.
• Afterbirth phase: delivery of the placenta and completion of labour.
• Each stage has its own features and challenges. Preparation and support are the key to a positive labour experience.