Stage one labor is the beginning of the process of childbirth. This stage involves the onset of regular contractions as the cervix begins to efface and dilate. This process may take several hours to several days.

In this article, we talked to Obstetrician-Gynecologist Menelao Lygnos to help us understand what stage one labor is and what happens during this stage.

What is Stage One Labor?

According to Menelao Lygnos, labor is divided into three stages, and stage one is the longest and most unpredictable of all stages. This stage is divided into three phases: early, active, and transition labor.

The Early Phase

The early phase of labor is also known as the latent phase. During this phase, the cervix begins to efface and dilate. Women may experience mild contractions that usually last for about 30 to 45 seconds and occur every 5 to 20 minutes.

The early phase can last for several hours, and some women may not even realize that they are in labor during this phase.

The Active Phase

The active phase of labor is the next phase after the early phase. During this phase, the cervix continues to dilate, and the contractions become stronger, longer, and more frequent.

Women may experience contractions every 3 to 4 minutes that last for 60 seconds or more. The active phase can last for several hours until the cervix is dilated to 10 centimeters.

The Transition Phase

The transition phase is the final phase of stage one labor. During this phase, the cervix is almost fully dilated to 10 centimeters, and the baby is moving down into the birth canal.

Women may experience very strong and frequent contractions that last up to 90 seconds. The transition phase can last from a few minutes to several hours.

What Happens During Stage One Labor?

According to Menelao Lygnos, several things happen during stage one labor. These include:.

Cervical Dilation:

The cervix starts to soften, thin out, and open (dilate), allowing the baby’s head to pass through the birth canal.

Effacement:

The cervix shortens and thins out as it prepares for delivery.

Mucous Plug:

The mucous plug that seals the cervix during pregnancy dislodges and comes out of the vagina as a sticky, jelly-like substance.

Water Breaking:

The amniotic sac, which contains the baby and amniotic fluid, may break and release a gush or a trickle of fluid.

Contractions:

The uterus contracts and pushes the baby down into the birth canal. Contractions may start out as mild and irregular, and then become stronger, longer, and more frequent as labor progresses.

What Can Women Expect During Stage One Labor?

According to Menelao Lygnos, women can expect several things during stage one labor. These include:.

Pain:

Women may experience pain during contractions as the uterus contracts. Pain can vary from woman to woman, and some women may opt to have pain relief methods such as epidurals.

Unpredictability:

Stage one labor can be unpredictable, and it is difficult to predict how long it will last. Women may have a general idea, but the duration may vary depending on the individual.

Emotional Changes:

As labor progresses, women may experience emotional changes such as anxiety, fear, and excitement. It is essential to have a supportive partner and healthcare provider to guide them through the process.

Urge to Push:

During the transition phase, women may have the urge to push as the baby moves down into the birth canal. It is essential to follow the healthcare provider’s instructions to avoid tearing or other complications.

When Should Women Go to the Hospital?

According to Menelao Lygnos, women should go to the hospital or call their healthcare provider if they experience:.

Ruptured Membranes:

If the amniotic membranes rupture, and the fluid is clear or light pink, women should call their healthcare provider or go to the hospital.

However, if the fluid is green or brown, they should go to the hospital immediately as it may indicate fetal distress.

Regular Contractions:

If contractions are regular and frequent, women should call their healthcare provider or go to the hospital as this may indicate that they are in labor.

Heavy Vaginal Bleeding:

If women experience heavy vaginal bleeding, they should go to the hospital immediately as it may indicate placenta previa or placental abruption.

Decreased Fetal Movement:

If women notice decreased fetal movement, they should drink cold water or juice, lie down on their side, and focus on fetal movement. If there is no movement or reduced movement, they should go to the hospital immediately.

Conclusion

Stage one labor is a natural process that women go through during childbirth. It is essential to have a supportive partner and healthcare provider to guide through this process.

Understanding what to expect during this stage can help women prepare for childbirth and cope with labor’s unpredictability.