Introduction
Labor refers to the process of birthing a baby, which happens in three stages. It involves the delivery of the baby and the placenta (a bag-like organ that transports oxygen and nutrients from the mother to the baby) through the vagina. Successful labor depends on the efforts of the mother, uterine contractions, the anatomy of the pelvis, and fetal characteristics. Medical professionals carry out cervical examinations and monitor the fetus to determine the stage of labor and the progression of labor.
How Does a Woman in Labor Present?
Women in labor often present with symptoms, such as painful uterine contractions, fluid discharge from the vagina, and vaginal bleeding. In addition, the contractions during labor are regular with the progression of cervical dilation. When a woman presents with the initiation of labor, vital signs such as heart rate, temperature, oxygen saturation, blood pressure, and respiratory rate are monitored and checked for any abnormalities.
What Are the Stages of Labor?
Human labor commences in three stages. It includes the following stages:
First Stage of Labor:
The first stage of labor is characterized by the thinning of the cervix and the dilation of the cervix to around ten centimeters. The first stage involves three different phases, which include the following:
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The Latent Phase - This stage of labor is the longest and least painful stage of labor. In this stage, the cervix thins out and dilates from zero to three centimeters. This stage can occur over weeks, days, or hours and is accompanied by contractions that are mild. These contractions may be regular, irregular, or may not be noticeable.
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The Active Phase - The active stage of labor involves painful contractions that occur three to four minutes apart with each contraction lasting for 30 to 60 seconds. In this stage, the cervix dilates from three centimeters to seven or eight centimeters.
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The Transition Phase - In this stage of labor, the cervix is fully dilated from eight centimeters to ten centimeters. The contractions in this stage are more intense, painful, and frequent. The interval between each contraction is no longer present, and the contractions run into each other. Strong pressure is felt in the rectum as the baby moves down the birth canal.
Throughout the first stage, careful monitoring is done to ensure the well-being of the baby and the progression of the labor.
Second Stage of Labor:
The second stage of labor involves the complete dilation of the cervix and the birth of the baby. The contractions during this stage of labor are regular and are spaced apart. Each contraction creates pressure in the rectum and an urge to push. The sensation of the fetal movement through the birth canal is experienced as a stretching or burning sensation. As the head comes down, the doctor or the midwife may guide the mother in pushing to enable the birth of the baby’s head. Once the head comes out, the doctor or the midwife will guide the baby’s body, so that the shoulders come out, and the rest of the body is delivered. This stage of labor lasts for one to two hours. The mother and the baby are monitored during this stage to ensure their well-being. If this stage of labor is long and not progressing, it can result in various complications. Hence, required interventions are performed if necessary.
Third Stage of Labor:
In the third stage of labor, delivery of the placenta occurs. After the delivery of the baby, the uterus gently contracts to push out the placenta spontaneously. The placenta delivery occurs in 5 to 30 minutes after delivering the baby. In addition, the uterine muscles continue to contract to arrest the bleeding. The birthing process is associated with a moderate blood loss of up to 500 milliliters. However, in some cases, excessive bleeding may occur resulting in anemia (a decrease in hemoglobin concentration) and fatigue (tiredness).
How to Cope With Each Stage of Labor?
First Stage of Labor:
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The Latent Phase: This stage of labor is usually longer and may take hours or even days. It is advised to rest in the comfort of the home. The following tips may help in coping with the process:
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Taking a walk.
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Changing positions often and resting in comfortable positions.
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Practicing breathing and relaxation techniques.
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Soaking in a warm tub of water or taking a warm shower. If the water is broken, it should be discussed with the doctor before soaking it in a tub of water.
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Taking rests if possible.
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Drinking plenty of water and eating mild foods in between.
At this stage of labor, it is essential to leave for the hospital.
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The Active Phase:
In this stage of labor, contractions are stronger with increased bleeding. This part of labor lasts for four to eight hours. The following tips help get through the active stage of labor.
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Changing the positions can help in coping with the pain, and getting on the hands and knees can help ease the discomfort of back pain. Walking in between contractions also helps ease the discomfort.
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Emptying the bladder often can make room for the baby’s head in the pelvic region.
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Breathing and relaxation techniques should be continued.
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A gentle massage, listening to music, and focusing on one contraction at a time help in getting over this phase.
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Transition Phase:
The transition phase is of a shorter duration that lasts from 15 minutes to an hour. In this stage, a strong pressure is felt near the rectum. A doctor or a midwife guides in pushing the baby out. Pushing before complete dilation of the cervix can cause swelling and the process is slowed down.
Second Stage of Labor:
This stage of labor involves the delivery of the baby and may last for 2 hours or longer. Trying several positions like squatting and lying on the side can help push the baby. A small surgical cut (episiotomy) may be necessary to prevent irregular tears.
Third Stage of Labor:
This stage of labor involves the delivery of the placenta. In this stage, contractions are less painful. This lasts for a short period of time, in which the placenta is delivered spontaneously. If a surgical cut was made, it is sutured in this stage after the delivery of the placenta.
Conclusion
The stages of labor are complex physiological processes that begin and end with the delivery of the baby and the placenta. The term stages of labor is a way of communicating that helps determine the labor spectrum. Determining the stage of labor helps define abnormalities in labor and to decide the clinical management in various stages of labor. In addition, constant support and mental strength help in getting through each stage of labor.
