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The Four Stages of Childbirth: Do you know the mysterious changes in each stage?
The delivery process is a moment that every mother looks forward to during pregnancy, whether it is the birth of a new life or the proof of the blood connection between mother and child. Data from 2020 shows that about 1.4 million people are born every year around the world. Behind the birth of these little lives lies a complex and mysterious process. Labor is usually divided into four distinct stages: the first stage is characterized by the shortening and opening of the cervix, the second stage is the descent and birth of the baby, the third stage is the expulsion of the placenta, and the fourth stage is the transition between the mother and the baby. The recovery process of the baby. These stages not only accurately define the production process, but also affect the safety and health of the entire pregnancy cycle.
In the first stage of labor, strong and repetitive uterine contractions are the most noticeable sign. These contractions are accompanied by abdominal cramps and usually last about half a minute, occurring every 10 to 30 minutes.
Phase 1: Latent and Active
The first stage is divided into a latent period and an active period. During the latent phase, women begin to feel regular uterine contractions, but these contractions are usually mild and may be accompanied by mild abdominal discomfort. At this point, contractions are not too bothersome for most pregnant women. As time goes on and the active phase begins, the contractions become more frequent and intense. During this phase, the woman's cervix begins to dilate, and usually the future mother will experience more intense pain.
As for the pain of the contractions, some people describe the feeling as similar to very intense period pains, while during the "crooning" process, there is an intense stretching and burning sensation.
Stage 2: The birth of the baby
When the cervix is fully dilated, the second stage begins. Mothers often feel a long-dormant urge to give birth, which comes from the pressure on the pelvis, prompting them to exert force effectively. The end of this phase marks the birth of the baby, with a sense of excitement that comes with anticipation. As the birth canal expands further, the mother helps push the baby out by squeezing and pushing.
The birth of a baby instantly brings the mother into a new world. Although the process may be difficult to describe in words, it is undoubtedly exciting.
Stage 3: Expulsion of the placenta
After the baby is born, there's a process called the 'third stage', which is when the placenta is expelled. This phase of the process is usually not too long. On average, the placenta is expelled naturally within 10 to 12 minutes. Knowledgeable health care providers can often provide prompt intervention to ensure the mother's safety.
The World Health Organization emphasizes that the expulsion of the placenta needs to be actively managed to reduce the risk of postpartum hemorrhage, and safety at this stage is crucial.
Stage 4: Postpartum Recovery
When talking about the final stage of labor, we have to mention postpartum recovery. This phase involves the mother's physical condition adjusting and lasts about six weeks. During this time, the mother's body adjusts hormone levels and uterine size back to a non-pregnant state. During this period, medical staff will conduct regular health checks on the mother, including uterine contractions, vaginal bleeding, etc.
As experts say: "The postpartum recovery period is the golden time for mothers and babies to establish a close bond."
In short, childbirth involves profound changes in the body and physiological evolution. This process is not only related to the continuation of the lives of mother and child, but also a major test of physiology and psychology. While every woman's experience during this process is unique, the four stages of childbirth are similar and unforgettable. Do you, too, have these stages of labor and birth firmly in mind, looking forward to your own unique journey?
