Stages of labour
There are three distinct stages of labour;
First stage – this begins when the cervix begins to open (dilate) and is complete when the cervix is dilated to about 10cm
Second stage – this is the period from when the cervix is fully dilated to when the baby is born
Third stage – starts from when your baby is born to when the placenta has been delivered
Understanding the distinct stages of labour can help you know what is happening with your body and how your labour is progressing.
For more information;
The Royal Women’s Hospital – Stages of labour
Pregnancy Birth & Baby – Giving birth – first stage of labour
Better Health Channel – Pregnancy – labour
Maternity Choices Australia – Bearing down or directed pushing
Maternity Choices Australia – Labour in water
Maternity Choices Australia – Pre-labour rupture of membranes
