The Phases of Labor: Are You Labor-Ready?
While it’s not called “labor” for nothing—the final phase definitely involves some work—the phases of labor are really about the cervix getting ready for delivery, a process that begins before most women even feel it.
Phase 1: Early (or Latent) Labor
Cervix diameter: from 0 to 4 centimeters
Duration: several hours to several weeks
In this phase, your cervix will start to thin and dilate. If you don’t feel contractions, you might not know labor has begun.
What’s Happening:
- Mild to moderate contractions lasting 30 to 45 seconds, at regular or irregular intervals.
- Contractions may not be noticeable until the final 2 to 6 hours.
- Possible amniotic sac rupture.
How to Deal:
- Feeling excited, anxious or relieved? Try to relax.
- If you feel contractions, note when they happen and how far apart they occur.
- If your water breaks, note the time and the appearance of the fluid.
- Engage your support person to be sure you have what you need.
Phase 2: Active Labor
Cervix diameter: from 6 to 10 centimeters
Duration: a few hours
Things are getting interesting. At this point, you’re usually in the hospital or birthing center, or at home with your doula if you’ve opted for a home birth.
What’s Happening:
- Contractions intensify, last 60 to 90 seconds, and happen every 2 to 4 minutes.
- Amniotic sac rupture—either naturally or manually.
- Possible backache, fatigue and menstrual-like cramping.
How to Deal:
- Ask for what you need from your support people.
- Start breathing exercises.
- If your OB allows it, keep moving. It can help ease the pain of contractions.
- If it’s working, keep up the rhythmic breathing.
Phase 3: Pushing 
Cervix diameter: 10 centimeters
Duration: 1 to 3 hours on average
This is the most challenging part, but also the most rewarding.
What’s Happening:
- Forceful contractions lasting 45 to 90 seconds that may or may not come with a strong urge to push.
- Increased pressure in perineum, rectum and lower back.
- Possible exhaustion or renewed sense of energy.
- Stretching or burning sensation.
How to Deal:
- Experiment with different positions to find the one most comfortable for you.
- Keep that chin down and back rounded. It helps your abdominal muscles push your baby down the birth canal.
- Listen to your doctor. Sometimes it’s important NOT to push. Relax your neck, shoulders and legs and try to pant through your contractions.
- Keep up your rhythmic breathing exercises.
- Grunt, groan and yell if you need to! You’re delivering a baby, for crying out loud. Let it OUT.
Phase 4: Delivering the Placenta
Your baby’s here! While it feels like you’re done with labor, there’s still one more phase to go.
Duration: 30 minutes
What’s Happening:
- Mild contractions that last about a minute each.
- A possible IV or injection of oxytocin to help encourage contractions.
- Kneading and pressing on your uterus by your healthcare provider, who may ask you to help push.
- Hunger and thirst, if it was a long labor.
- Lots of emotions, from elation to relief.
How to Deal:
- Focus on bonding with your new bundle of joy.
- Enjoy a special moment with your partner or support person.
- Savor your sense of accomplishment—you just delivered a BABY!
Just like babies, no two labor experiences are the same. While you can’t predict how it will go, a birth plan can help you prepare for all the possibilities that might happen. It’s a beautiful and exciting day. Plan ahead.
