Stages of Labour and Methods of Delivery

Stages of Labour

First Stage: Early and Active Labour

The first stage of labour is characterised by regular contractions and ends when the cervix is fully dilated.
Early labour is the beginning of the first stage and lasts until the cervix is about 3 centimetres dilated. Contractions may feel like mild to moderate menstrual cramps, typically starting mild and getting stronger and closer together.
Active labour often lasts between 3 to 5 hours, with contractions becoming more regular, longer, more intense, and closer together. The cervix dilates from 3 cm to 7 cm.
Transition phase is the final part of the first stage of labour, contractions are often very intense, with little reprieve in between. The cervix dilates from 7 cm to full 10 cm dilation.

Second Stage: Birth

The second stage of labour starts once the woman is fully dilated and ends with the birth of the baby.
Contractions continue, but pushing also begins to help the baby descend through the birth canal.

Third Stage: Delivering the Placenta

The third stage of labour involves the expulsion of the placenta from the uterus after the baby has been born.

Methods of Delivery

Vaginal Delivery

Vaginal delivery is the most common method of birth, where the baby is born through the birth canal.
It generally involves three stages of labour: the shortening and opening of the cervix, descent and birth of the baby, and the delivery of the placenta.

Caesarean Section

A Caesarean section, or C-section, is a surgical method of birth where the baby is delivered through an incision in the mother’s abdomen and uterus.
It may be planned in advance, if a vaginal delivery is risky, or performed as an emergency procedure, if complications arise during labour.

Assisted Delivery

Assisted delivery involves using tools like forceps or a ventouse (suction cup) to guide the baby out of the birth canal.
This is usually done during a vaginal delivery if the mother is unable to push the baby out on her own, or if the baby is in distress and needs to be delivered more quickly.

Health and Wellbeing

The choice of method for delivery can depend on several factors like the mother’s health, the baby’s position, and other individual circumstances.
All methods of delivery carry potential risks and benefits, which should be discussed with a healthcare provider.
It is important for expectant parents to prepare for childbirth by learning about these processes, attending prenatal classes, and drawing up a birth plan.