The Stages of Labor and Delivery
What to expect as you go through labor

If you’re approaching the last stages of your pregnancy, you might be anxious about the big day. Many women express concerns about the pain, about their stay at the hospital and about how long the delivery will take. You will be able to ease your anxiety about the birthing process by reading up on the stages of labor and delivery, as well as the experiences of other women. You will be able to recognize the stages of birth for yourself, and be able to make conscious and well-informed decisions about what’s right for you by knowing as much as possible, 
First Stage
The first stage of labor is divided into three parts: early, active and transitional labor. The early phase is also called the latent period or pre-labor. Contractions will begin during this stage of labor. They may start off gently but will gradually become stronger and more intense. The contractions will help your cervix become shorter and open up more, so that the baby can begin its descent into the birth canal, leading to dilation. Your progression may be different than average depending on your baby and your body.
As your cervix has dilates to 3 or 4 centimeters you are considered to be in the active phase of the first stage of labor. Your cervix will change consistency during this phase of labor, going from firm and tight to being soft and stretchy.
The breaking of the water occurs as a result of your body increasing production of a particular enzyme as you go into labor, which works to dissolve the collagen that keeps the fetal membrane together, splitting the amniotic sac and releasing the fluid.
Second Stage
The second stage of labor is a lot shorter than the first, averaging about an hour and a half. This stage involves hard work, and although women are typically encouraged to give birth in a partially reclined position, sometimes trying a different position can actually be more beneficial in helping speed up labor and delivery. You can also utilize your Lamaze breathing techniques at this time.
At this time your baby will start to make her way down the birth canal. You might have an urge to push as the baby moves closer down. Then, the baby’s head stretches the opening of the vagina, causing a stinging sensation. An episiotomy might be done to help the baby’s head fit through the vaginal opening.
Third Stage:
After the delivery of your baby, the final stage of labor occurs and is also known as the afterbirth. The placenta and other uterine substances are expelled from the body during this stage. Your contracts will begin again after giving birth, but this time the contractions will help the placenta to release from the uterus and drop into the womb. It can then pass out of the vagina. This stage takes five to fifteen minutes typically.