Management

What Happens During Labor: Stages 2 and 3

Choose a preferred language

Labor, or childbirth, has 3 stages. Stage 2 starts once your cervix is fully dilated. It ends with the birth of your baby. Stage 3 starts after your baby is born.

Featured in

Author: Semko, Laura

Date Last Reviewed: 05/01/2020

© 2000-2026 The StayWell Company, LLC. All rights reserved. This information is not intended as a substitute for professional medical care. Always follow your healthcare professional's instructions.

Find a Provider

View Our Directory

Find a Location

View Our Practices
Related Articles
Read article
OB/GYN
Eating Well During Pregnancy

A healthy baby begins with you.Choosing the right foods can help give you and your growing baby the nutrition you need and help you recover faster. Here are some tips to help you have a healthy pregnancy.

Read article
OB/GYN
What Happens During Labor: Stage 1

Labor, or childbirth, has 3 stages. The first stage is the longest. It can last up to 20 hours, especially if you are having your first child.

Read article
OB/GYN
TOLAC (Trial of Labor After Cesarean Delivery)

You've had a cesarean section birth. Now you may wonder if you can try vaginal birth with your next baby. It's likely you can. The attempt to have a vaginal birth after cesarean delivery is called a trial of labor after cesarean delivery (TOLAC). It's often a success. To find out more about TOLAC, read this health sheet.

Read article
OB/GYN
Postpartum Nutrition

Watch this video to understand the importance of making healthy food choices and learn some tips for choosing foods as you heal and recover from childbirth while caring for your newborn.