Three Steps of the Birth Process

Giving birth is one of life's unforgettable experiences. If you are pregnant for the first time, the birthing process can seem somewhat scary and confusing; you may think that you are in full labor when you sense the first contraction. Knowing what you can expect during the different stages of giving birth will take away some of your anxiety.

  1. First Step

    • For your baby to be born, your cervix must be 10 cm dilated. During the first stage of the birthing process, your cervix will dilate 3 cm to 4 cm. The length of this first stage differs per mother. You will experience contractions that are anywhere from five to 30 minutes apart. Don't go to the hospital yet though, because they may send you home until you reach the second stage. Getting rest and fluids is essential to prepare you for what is to come.

    Second Step

    • During the second step of the birthing process, you can go to the hospital. Your cervix dilates to 7 cm or 8 cm and your water may break, if this had not happened yet. Your contractions will be longer, more intense and approximately five minutes apart. Any breathing techniques to deal with the pain come in handy. A doctor may administer pain medication, such as an epidural, during this phase. It can take up to five hours before you progress into the final step of the birthing process.

    Third Step

    • During step three, your cervix is 10 cm dilated and you are giving birth. The duration of the birth varies for each mother. Your contractions come approximately every two minutes and can last up to 90 seconds. You may also feel the urge to push, even though sometimes the epidural takes away this sensation. After the birth, the doctor records the time and date and cuts your baby's umbilical cord. Then the doctor weighs, measures and cleans up your baby.

    Recovery

    • Slight contractions after the birth are normal. They indicate the separation of the placenta from the uterine wall. Your doctor may massage your uterus to help expel the placenta from your body. This process can take up to 30 minutes. The doctor will monitor you during your recovery to make sure you don't have any complications or excess blood loss. Upon doctor's approval, you and your baby may go home.

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