Template:Birth stages table

From Embryology
Labour Stages Changes Time Roles
Stage 1 Dilatation 7 to 12 hours
longer for first child
Uterine contractions 10 minutes apart, function to dilate cervix fetal membranes rupture releasing amnion.
Stage 2 Expulsion 20 to 50 minutes Uterine contractions 2 to 3 minutes apart, function to push fetus through cervix and vagina.
Stage 3 Placental 15 minutes Uterine contractions following child delivery expel placenta. Haematoma separates placenta from uterine wall, separation occurs at spongy layer of decidua basalis.
Stage 4 Recovery 2+ hours Uterine contractions continue and myometrial contraction closes spiral arteries, also begins to reduce uterine volume.