What are the stages of birth?
1. Labor: This is the longest stage, divided into three phases:
* Early labor: This is when contractions are mild and irregular, and the cervix starts to dilate (open) and efface (thin). It can last for hours or even days.
* Active labor: Contractions become stronger, more frequent, and longer lasting. The cervix dilates from 6 cm to 10 cm. This phase typically lasts several hours.
* Transition: This is the most intense part of labor. Contractions are very strong, and the cervix is almost fully dilated. This phase can be short and challenging.
2. Pushing: Once the cervix is fully dilated, the mother starts pushing to deliver the baby. This stage can last anywhere from a few minutes to a few hours, depending on factors like the baby's position and the mother's strength.
3. Delivery of the placenta: After the baby is born, the placenta detaches from the uterine wall and is delivered. This stage usually takes a few minutes.
4. Postpartum: This is the period after the delivery of the placenta, during which the mother's body recovers and she adjusts to motherhood.
Additional Notes:
* Water breaking: The amniotic sac, which surrounds the baby in the womb, can rupture before or during labor, causing a release of fluid known as amniotic fluid.
* Episiotomy: A small incision made in the perineum (the area between the vagina and the anus) to enlarge the vaginal opening and prevent tearing during delivery.
* C-section: A cesarean delivery is a surgical procedure to deliver the baby through an incision in the abdomen.
It's important to note that the labor and delivery process can vary greatly between individuals. Each woman experiences birth uniquely, and the length of each stage can differ significantly.
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