Normal Childbirth

Normal childbirth or vaginal birth takes place in three stages that are common to all women with slight differences.

Stage A

The first stage, or the expansion stage. In this stage the cervix is prepared and then fully dilated in order to pass the child’s head. Dilation is described in centimetres.

Stage B

The second stage, or the extrusion stage. In this stage the baby’s head is lowered to come out. Instinctively, the pregnant woman instinctively pushes down. At the same time, the contractions of the uterus allow the head to come out of the perineum.

Stage C

The third stage of normal delivery, or hysterotomy. This stage begins after the birth of the child. The midwife will clear any fluids present in the baby’s airways. The umbilical cord will be cut and after the newborn’s characteristic first cry, we can take the baby for its first cuddle. Thus, the time required for the normal detachment and exit of the placenta has elapsed.