What Are the Stages of Labour?

Labour is a remarkable process that brings your baby into the world, and understanding its stages can help you feel more prepared and confident. Labour is divided into three main stages, each with its own unique characteristics and milestones. Let’s explore these stages and what to expect during each one.

The First Stage of Labour

The first stage of labour begins with the onset of regular contractions and ends when the cervix is fully dilated to 10 centimetres. This stage is often the longest and is divided into two phases: the latent phase and the active phase.

Latent Phase

What Happens? - The cervix begins to soften, thin out (efface), and open (dilate) to about 4-6 centimetres. Contractions may start off irregular and mild, gradually becoming more frequent, longer, and stronger.
What You Might Feel - You may experience backache, cramping, or a “tightening” sensation in your abdomen. Many people find this phase manageable and may stay at home.
How Long Does It Last? - The latent phase can vary widely, lasting several hours to a few days, especially for first-time parents.
Tips for Coping - rest as much as possible, use relaxation techniques, such as breathing exercises or a warm bath and stay hydrated and eat light, energy-rich snacks.

Active Phase

What Happens? - the cervix dilates from around 4-6centimetres to full dilation (10 centimetres). Contractions become stronger, more regular, and closer together, typically lasting 45-60 seconds and occurring every 3-5 minutes.

What You Might Feel - contractions may require your full focus, and you might feel pressure as the baby moves lower into your pelvis.

How Long Does It Last? - the active phase generally lasts 4-8 hours but can be shorter or longer depending on individual circumstances.

Tips for Coping - use movement and upright positions to encourage progress, try massage, counter-pressure, or water immersion for pain relief and stay connected with your birth partner or support team for reassurance.

The Second Stage of Labour

The second stage begins when the cervix is fully dilated and ends with the birth of your baby. This stage is often referred to as the “baby moving down stage.”

What Happens? - the baby moves down through the birth canal, guided by contractions and your efforts to push. You may feel an overwhelming urge to bear down, often described as a natural, instinctive sensation. As the baby crowns (the head becomes visible), you may feel a burning or stretching sensation known as the “ring of fire.”
How Long Does It Last? - for first-time parents, the second stage can last 1-2 hours or more. For those who’ve had a baby before, it’s often shorter.
Tips for Coping - follow your body’s cues unless advised otherwise by your midwife or doctor. Focus on your breathing to stay calm and conserve energy. Use upright or side-lying positions to work with gravity and help your baby descend.

The Third Stage of Labour

The third stage begins after the birth of your baby and ends with the delivery of the placenta.

What Happens? - contractions continue, helping the placenta separate from the wall of the uterus. You may be offered an injection (known as active management), or you may choose to deliver the placenta naturally (physiological management).
What You Might Feel - you may feel mild contractions and a sense of pressure as the placenta is delivered.
After Delivery - the midwife will check the placenta to ensure it has been delivered completely. You may experience skin-to-skin contact with your baby and begin breastfeeding, if desired, as this can help the uterus contract and reduce bleeding.

A Fourth Stage: The Golden Hour

Although not officially part of the stages of labour, the hour after birth is often referred to as the “golden hour.” During this time, you and your baby begin getting to know each other and building your relationship and the body starts its recovery process.

What Happens? - Your baby is usually placed skin-to-skin on your chest, which helps regulate their temperature, heart rate, and breathing. If you choose to breastfeed, this is an ideal time to start. Your uterus continues to contract, helping to reduce bleeding and return to its pre-pregnancy size.

Every Birth Is Unique

It’s important to remember that labour can unfold differently for everyone. Some people experience rapid progress, while others may have a slower, steadier journey. Having a supportive team, including a midwife or doula, can make all the difference in helping you feel confident and empowered throughout the process.

If you’re preparing for birth, consider attending antenatal classes, such as hypnobirthing, to learn more about the stages of labour and how to cope with them. Being informed and supported can help you approach labour with a sense of calm and excitement as you prepare to meet your baby.