STAGE 1 OF LABOR

Stage 1:
1. Early labor and active labor
2. Cervical effacement and dilation
3. Cervical effacement and dilation

The first stage of labor and birth occurs when you begin to feel regular contractions, which cause the
cervix to open (dilate) and soften, shorten and thin (effacement). This allows the baby to move into the
birth canal. The first stage is the longest of the three stages. It's actually divided into two phases of its
own — early labor (latent phase) and active labor.

A. Early labor

The time of the onset of labor until the cervix is dilated to 3 cm. During early labor, your cervix dilates
and effaces. You'll feel mild, irregular contractions.
As your cervix begins to open, you might notice a clear, pink or slightly bloody discharge from your
vagina. This is likely the mucus plug that blocks the cervical opening during pregnancy.

 How long it lasts: Early labor is unpredictable. For first-time moms, the average length varies
from hours to days. It's often shorter for subsequent deliveries.
 What you can do: Until your contractions increase in frequency and intensity, it's up to you. For
many women, early labor isn't particularly uncomfortable. Try to stay relaxed.

B. Active labor

Continues from 3 cm. until the cervix is dilated to 7 cm. During active labor, your cervix will dilate from 6
centimeters (cm) to 10 cm. Your contractions will become stronger, closer together and regular. Your
legs might cramp, and you might feel nauseated. You might feel your water break — if it hasn't already
— and experience increasing pressure in your back. If you haven't headed to your labor and delivery
facility yet, now's the time.

 How long it lasts: Active labor often lasts four to eight hours or more. On average, your cervix
will dilate at approximately one centimeter per hour.
 What you can do: Look to your labor coach and health care team for encouragement and
support. Try breathing and relaxation techniques to combat your growing discomfort. Use what
you learned in childbirth class or ask your health care team for suggestions.
 What to expect:
1. Early labor will last approximately 8-12 hours
2. Your cervix will efface and dilate to 3 cm
3. Contractions will last about 30-45 seconds, giving you 5-30 minutes of rest between
contractions
4. Contractions are typically mild and somewhat irregular but become progressively stronger
and more frequent
5. Contractions can feel like aching in your lower back, menstrual cramps, and
pressure/tightening in the pelvic area
6. Your water might break – this is known as amniotic sac rupture and can happen anytime
within the first stage of labor.
  When experiencing contractions, notice if they are:
1. Growing more intense
2. Following a regular pattern
3. Lasting longer
4. Becoming closer together
 When your water breaks (amniotic sac rupture), note the following:
1. Color of fluid
2. Odor of fluid
3. Time rupture occurred

C. Transition Stage

Continues from 7 cm. until the cervix is fully dilated to 10 cm. Can be particularly intense and painful.
Contractions will come close together and can last 60 to 90 seconds. You'll experience pressure in your
lower back and rectum. Tell your health care provider if you feel the urge to push.

If you want to push but you're not fully dilated, your health care provider might ask you to hold back.
Pushing too soon could make you tired and cause your cervix to swell, which might delay delivery. Pant
or blow your way through the contractions. Transition usually lasts 15 to 60 minutes.