What first time moms should expect during labor?

First Baby: What to Expect

As your expected due date approaches, you might be wondering what to expect during childbirth. While each labor and birth is unique, the process of a vaginal delivery follows four stages: First Stage (early labor, active labor and transition), Second Stage (pushing and birth), Third Stage (delivery of the placenta), and Fourth Stage (uterus returns to original size).


First Stage (early labor, active labor and transition)

During Early Labor
What to Expect: You will begin to notice tightening sensations in your abdomen called contractions. These contractions can last up to 60 seconds and can be between 5 to 30 minutes apart. Contractions will increase in strength and frequency as your labor progresses. At this time, your cervix will start to dilate (open) and will reach 6 centimeters by the end of this phase.

How Long It Will Last: Early labor is the longest part of labor and can last 12 to 24 hours or longer if this is your first baby. Because of this, it is important to be patient and try to rest as much as possible.


During Active Labor

What to Expect: Your contractions are stronger, longer and closer together. Contractions can last up to 60 to 90 seconds and are approximately 2 to 5 minutes apart. Dilation typically happens more rapidly in active labor than in early labor, your cervix dilates to 6 to 8 centimeters.

How Long It Will Last: For many people giving birth for the first time, active labor typically lasts 4 to 8 hours.
During Transition

What to Expect: Your contractions are the strongest, longest and closest together. Contractions can last 60 to 120 seconds and are usually 2 to 3 minutes apart. Your cervix dilates from 8 to 10 centimeters and when you reach 10 centimeters, you begin the second stage.

How Long It Will Last: This is usually the shortest part of the first stage of labor.


Second Stage (pushing and birth)

What to Expect: Your cervix has fully dilated to 10 centimeters. You may feel pressure and the urge to push. Your doctor or midwife will let you know when to start pushing.

How Long It Will Last: On average this stage can last 1 ½ to 2 hours with your first baby. However, you only push when you are having a contraction and you can rest in between.

Third and Fourth Stages (after delivery)

What to Expect: Your placenta is delivered. You may experience chills or shakiness during this time. This stage can take up to 30 minutes. Once the placenta is delivered, you enter the fourth stage of labor as your uterus returns to its original size. Many people feel light cramping during this period.