Your birth – the five stages you need to know

When birth approaches, one of life's most intense and transformative moments begins. Although the process is natural, it is experienced very differently. Some women hardly notice how labor creeps up on them, while others feel like they have been in labor for days. Understanding the five basic stages can provide much more peace of mind, both for the woman giving birth and for her loved ones watching from the sidelines.

Knowing the stages does not mean you can control the process. But it does make you better prepared for what to expect and how to best take care of yourself. Let's dive into what the five stages entail and how both the mother-to-be and those around her can support and relieve her throughout the process.

The first stage: The latent phase

The first signs often resemble scattered waves on an otherwise calm lake. The latent phase can be insidious and capricious. Here, the contractions have slowly begun, but they are easily misleading – they start off irregular and not very strong, coming and going with very varying intervals.

Some only experience this stage for a few hours. For others, it can last up to several days. This often causes confusion and frustration because it is difficult to assess when things will really start to happen. Many first-time mothers believe they are closer to the end than they actually are because they naturally do not yet know what strong contractions feel like.

Patience is essential here:

• Try to rest, even if you are feeling excited
• Eat light meals and make sure to drink
• Create a calm atmosphere – perhaps put on some relaxing music
• Take a warm bath or place a hot water bottle on your lower back if it helps

The latent phase can feel long and exhausting, but this is also when your body is getting into the rhythm of labor and preparing you for the next step.

The active phase

When the contractions come at regular intervals and with clear force, the birth changes character. The active phase typically begins when the cervix has opened to about four centimeters and the contractions occur at 3-4 minute intervals. The contractions last about one minute and can be felt much more intensely than in the latent phase.

Now there is often no doubt – the body is working purposefully to allow the baby to pass through the birth canal. It is during this period that most people contact the hospital or their home midwife. It can be a good idea to have a check-up and be reassured that everything is going as it should.

The following signs are typically seen in this phase:

The active phase often feels like the most demanding part of childbirth. Many feel that their strength is really being put to the test. But at the same time, the body is doing an impressive job – centimeter by centimeter.

The transition phase

You are now on the threshold between the hard work of childbirth and the moment when your baby comes into the world. The transition phase marks the change: the cervix is now fully open, but the body is not yet ready to push. Here you wait for the baby's head to reach the pelvic floor.

For many, this can feel confusing or frustrating. You may feel very restless and tired. However, the contractions may ease off a little while the body gathers strength. Some describe it as a kind of “break,” while others find this phase mentally and physically challenging.

There is nothing to do but accept the breaks and trust that your body knows what it is doing. Some women use breathing techniques, get a massage, or take a warm bath. It is also a good idea for your partner or a support person to offer calmness and encouragement.

The pushing phase

Now the grand finale of the birth begins. In the pushing phase, you will often feel an irresistible urge to push. This is nature's own reflex, which helps the baby along the last stretch. For some, this urge comes suddenly and powerfully, for others it grows gradually.

How the pushing stage is experienced varies greatly:

• Many experience pain that is strong but also different from the contractions – now you can finally use your strength actively.
• Some feel control and joy at finally being able to “do something,” while others find it the peak of pain and exhaustion.
• The pressure and burning sensations at the end can be overwhelming, but at the same time closer to the reward than ever before.

In terms of time, it ranges from just a few minutes to about two hours. First-time mothers often have to push longer – and here it is especially important to receive encouragement and support.

Helpful tips for the pushing stage:

• Listen to the midwife's instructions to reduce the risk of tearing
• Try different positions if possible—squatting, on all fours, sitting
• Accept support and touch if it feels good

You can think of the pushing phase as the last mountain you have to climb before the prize is in your arms.

The afterbirth – the birth is not quite over yet

Shortly after the baby has come into the world with all its sounds and smells, the phase that many may not have thought much about begins: the afterbirth. This is when the placenta is delivered, which usually happens quietly and calmly. Often, you will only feel a slight contraction, and then the midwife will ask you to push gently.

Although it may seem insignificant, this part is crucial for the mother to recover without complications. Delivering the placenta allows the uterus to contract and stop the bleeding.

Important points about the afterbirth:

• The placenta is typically delivered 10-30 minutes after the baby
• The midwife will inspect the placenta to ensure that everything is completely out
• You may be preoccupied with the baby while this final stage is taking place

Sometimes an injection is given to help the placenta detach more quickly, especially if the bleeding is increasing.

Emotional register along the way

It is not only the body that works through the stages of childbirth. The mind also goes into overdrive. The transition from curiosity and anticipation to pain, exhaustion, and ultimate relief or euphoria can feel like a roller coaster ride.

You will often experience:

• Mood and energy swings
• A need for support from those around you
• Doubt, insecurity, crying, or laughing—and often all at once

It is completely normal if you feel like you are losing faith in yourself along the way – especially during the transition phase. Here, it is important to remember that your thoughts and feelings are a natural part of the process.

How do the five phases compare?

Here is a simple overview that can help you understand the flow of childbirth and what the body does along the way:

Good advice for the five stages of labor

Whatever happens, listen to your body and take things one stage at a time. Care, calm, and presence are key words:

• Use the breaks when they come. Even short breathing spaces can feel like gold.
• Have snacks, fluids, and relaxation ready so that your energy is preserved for as long as possible.
• Seek support—both physical and mental—from those you trust.
• Accept that births are unpredictable. If one plan doesn't work, try another.
• Focus on breathing, relaxation, and working with your body.

Knowing the stages can provide reassurance, but it is largely care and support, for yourself and from others, that makes all the difference. No two births are the same, but all deserve to be met with respect and love for the tremendous work that childbirth is.