Stages of Labor

Overview

• There are four stages of labor: Stage 1, Stage 2, Stage 3, and Stage 4.
• Each stage involves specific processes and nursing interventions.

Stage 1: Begins with Labor Onset to Full Cervical Dilation

• Phase 1: Latent Phase

  • Characteristics:
    • Excitement and talkativeness in mothers
    • Mild pain
    • Cervical dilation: 0 to 3 cm

• Phase 2: Active Phase

  • Characteristics:
    • Stronger contractions
    • Increased apprehension
    • Cervical dilation: 4 to 7 cm

• Phase 3: Transition Phase

  • Characteristics:
    • Cervical dilation: 8 to 10 cm (full dilation)
    • Strong urge to push or rectal pressure
    • Fear or apprehension in mothers ("I can't do this" feelings)
    • Need for emotional support and reassurance

Stage 2: Full Dilation to Birth of Baby

• Begins at 10 cm dilation until the baby is born.

Stage 3: Birth of Baby to Delivery of Placenta

• Starts after the baby is born and lasts until the placenta is delivered.

Stage 4: Delivery of Placenta to Maternal Stabilization

• From delivery of placenta until maternal condition stabilizes back to pre-labor state.

Effacement vs Dilation

Effacement

• Refers to the thinning of the cervix.
• Starts thick and closed, thins out with contractions.
• Measured in percentages (0% to 100%).

Dilation

• Refers to the opening of the cervix.
• Measured in centimeters.

Key Points

• Effacement and dilation are crucial indicators of labor progression.
• Important for understanding the labor process and nursing interventions.

Conclusion

• Understanding the stages of labor and the concepts of effacement and dilation is key for nursing students and professionals.
• Visual aids can be very helpful in conceptualizing these concepts.

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