Stages and Phases of Labor
A woman's labor and birth has been divided into three stages. The first stage being mainly preparation, the second ending in the birth of your baby and the third finishing with the delivery of the placenta.
First Stage
Prodomal Phase
Early Phase
Active Phase
Transitional Phase
Second Stage
Third Stage
Third Stage
What is Happening
The third stage begins immediately after the birth of your baby and ends with the delivery of the placenta. During this phase, the umbilical cord is cut and not long after your baby is born (about 3 to 5 minutes), you will begin to experience contractions again. The first few contractions loosen the placenta from the uterine wall and you will be asked to push it out gently. After you deliver the placenta, your uterus should contract and get very firm. (19) This is important in order to prevent continued bleeding from the former side of the placenta attachment. The third stage can last anywhere from a few to 30 minutes.(20)
What Helps
Touch, caress and cuddle your baby without time constraints. This is a good time for the first breastfeeding, and it will help tighten the uterus.
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