Labour has three stages, and most of the early part is often spent at home, so knowing what each stage feels like makes it far less daunting. This guide walks through them in order, and tells you when to call for help.
The three stages at a glance
- First stage: the cervix opens, from the first contractions until it is fully open (about 10 cm). It begins with early (latent) labour, then moves into established labour.
- Second stage: from a fully open cervix until your baby is born.
- Third stage: from your baby’s birth until the placenta is delivered.
Early labour
Early labour is usually the longest part. Contractions are often irregular and milder at first, and they can stop and start. The aim is to stay comfortable and save your energy. If it begins at night, try to rest. Eat and drink little and often, and a warm bath or a change of position can help. Most people stay at home during this stage, but follow your maternity unit’s advice about when to call.
Established labour
Contractions become stronger, longer and more regular. The NHS says that in a first pregnancy, the time from the start of established labour to a fully open cervix is usually 8 to 18 hours, and often quicker (around 5 to 12 hours) in a second or third pregnancy. Every labour is different, so these are guides, not targets. This is usually the point when you head to your birth place, or your midwife comes to you for a home birth.
The birth
Once the cervix is fully open, your baby moves down the birth canal. Your midwife will help you find a comfortable position, and your birth partner can support you. Many people find it helps to talk about positions and support in advance. Ideally, your baby’s first feed happens within an hour of birth.
After the birth
The third stage is the delivery of the placenta. Your midwife will talk you through the two ways this can be managed, and the NHS notes that evidence suggests waiting between 1 and 5 minutes before cutting the umbilical cord. Your birth preferences are the place to note what matters to you.
Things to think about before labour
- Which pain relief options are available where you plan to give birth?
- What would you like your birth partner to do, and not do?
- Who will you call, and when? Keep your maternity unit’s number somewhere easy to find.
When to get help
Contact your maternity unit or midwife straight away if your waters break, you have any vaginal bleeding, your baby is moving less than usual, or you’re worried about anything. Call 999 if your baby seems about to be born suddenly, or in an emergency.
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In our small-group antenatal classes, Meg talks through the stages of labour and gives you the chance to try out positions and ways your partner can help.
Baby Steps GP provides antenatal education. This guide is general information, not medical advice, and doesn’t replace advice from your midwife, GP or maternity unit.