The Stages of Labor

The four stages of the childbirth process are based on changes in the uterus and cervix as labor progresses. The beginning and end of each stage are described below:

First Stage of Labor


  • Begins at the onset of labor and ends when the cervix is 100 percent effaced and completely dilated to 10 centimeters.

  • Average length ranges for a first-time mother is from 10 to 14 hours and shorter for subsequent births.

  • Read more about the First Stage of Labor in our Health Information section.

  • Read about Cerival Effacement and Dilation

  • Illustration of Cervical Effacement

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Second Stage of Labor


  • Begins when the cervix is completely effaced and dilated and ends with the birth of the baby.

  • Average length for a first time mother ranges from 1 to 4 hours and shorter for subsequent births.

  • Read more about Pushing/Second Stage of Labor

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Third Stage of Labor


  • Begins with the birth of the baby and ends with the delivery of the placenta.

  • Average length for all vaginal deliveries ranges from 5 to 15 minutes.

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Fourth Stage of Labor


  • Begins with delivery of the placenta and ends 1 to 2 hours after delivery.

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How Will I Know If I'm Making Progress?

The progress of labor and the baby's position is determined by an internal vaginal exam. These exams usually are not done frequently and may or may not be done during a contraction. Internal vaginal exams assess:


  • Cervical effacement (thinning measured as 0 to 100 percent)

  • Cervical dilation (opening measured as 0 to 10 centimeters)

  • Presentation (part of the baby to be born first, i.e. head, buttocks, feet, etc.)


  • Position of the baby's presenting part (anterior: facing your back, or posterior: facing your front) (see below)


  • Station (distance of the presenting part from above or below the mid pelvis in "plus" or "minus" numbers)

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