31/08/2025
That little flutter in your belly, the one that grew into kicks and rolls, is soon going to be a tiny human in your arms. It's an incredible thought, isn't it? And as that due date gets closer, I know there’s a mix of excitement and, let’s be honest, a few nerves about what’s to come – especially the stages of labor.
So, what exactly are these 'stages'? Think of it as your body's amazing, step-by-step process of bringing your baby, and then the placenta (that amazing organ that nourished your baby), from your uterus out into the world through your va**na. It’s quite the journey!
Now, in the medical world, we generally talk about three main stages of labor:
- Stage 1: This is all about labor itself – those contractions you’ve heard so much about.
- Stage 2: This is the pushing part, leading to the birth of your baby.
- Stage 3: And finally, delivering the placenta.
We sometimes call this 'normal labor,' but that's more for us doctors to have a common language.
Understand the key stages of labor, from early contractions to placenta delivery. Learn what to expect during each phase and when to head to the hospital.