Stages of Labor - Stage II

The birth of a child is a special and unique event. No two genders are the same, and it is impossible to predict exactly what your gender will be like. However, we can predict the stages you will go through during labor and what you can usually expect.

Labor takes place in three stages:

First stage: begins with the beginning of true labor and continues until the cervix is fully dilated up to 10 cm.
Second stage: continues after the opening of the cervix up to 10 cm before delivery.
Third stage: Delivery of your placenta.

The second stage of labor is the bearing and birth of a child. Until now, your body has been doing all the work for you. Now that your cervix is fully dilated to 10 cm, it's time to help you push.

Pushing and what to expect:

The second stage can last from 20 minutes to 2 hours.
Contractions will last about 45-90 seconds with 3-5 minute rest intervals in between.
You will have a strong natural desire to push.
You will feel strong pressure in your rectum.
You probably have a small bowel or urination accident.
Your baby's head will eventually crown (become visible).
You will feel a burning and tingling sensation at the coronation.
During the coronation, your doctor will tell you not to push.

Pushing and what to do:

Get into a pushing position where gravity is in your favor.
Press whenever you want.
Relax your pelvic floor and anal area (Kegel exercises may help).
Rest between contractions to recuperate.
Use a mirror to see your progress (it can be very reassuring!).
Use all your energy to push.
Don't be discouraged if your baby's head pops out and then slips into the vagina (this process can take two steps forward and one step back).

Support Tips:

Help her relax and feel as comfortable as possible. Give her ice cubes, if available, and offer physical support in her position.
Encourage, encourage, encourage!
Help her get through her contractions.
Give verbal support by telling her how well she is doing.
Don't be offended if she shows anger or gets emotional.

What does your baby do:

While you are giving birth, your baby is taking certain steps to enter this world.
Your baby's head will turn to one side and the chin will automatically rest on the chest so the back of the head can lead forward.
Once you are fully open, your baby's head opens up and the head and torso begin to turn to face your back as they enter the vagina.
Your baby's head will then start to appear or "crown" through the vaginal opening.
Once your baby's head is out, the head and shoulders will turn to face you again, allowing your baby to glide easily.

Delivery and what to expect:

Keep in mind that your baby has been soaked in amniotic fluid for nine months.

After contractions and passing through your very narrow birth canal, the baby will have the following characteristics: