Second stage of labour
This stage begins when the cervix reaches complete dilation and effacement, and it ends with the birth of the baby.
Cervical effacement and complete dilation at second stage of labour.
The contractions are less intense, last 60–75 seconds and are about 3–5 minutes apart. You may feel an urge to bear down at the peak of these contractions.
This stage may last from 10 minutes to 2 hours. Your mood usually improves. You may become more talkative and co-operative. It is usually a tremendous relief to work with the contractions and to push.
As the baby descends you may feel a burning, stretching sensation with a large amount of pressure. Some women experience pain with pushing, but this is usually associated with increased tension, an unrelaxed pelvic floor, unusual presentation of the baby, the position of the mother or a large baby.
Your birth attendant will tell you exactly what to do. Listen, co-operate and try to relax and enjoy the birth of your baby.
Cutting the cord
The cord is usually cut shortly after birth by clamping it in two places and cutting between the clamps.
Note to support person: Second stage
- Put your arms around her shoulders.
- Give her your strength through closeness.
- Help her to relax completely between contractions.
Sharing in the birth of your child is a perfect beginning to your future years together as a family
Related articles
Checklist - maternity ward suitcase
*Check whether the maternity ward has a list of the items you will need.
Items for hospital stay
5 mins to read
Medication for pain relief
In a normal, uncomplicated labour and delivery, the use of medication is not always necessary. Your own resources are often enough.
5 mins to read
Labour
As labour starts, a mother’s mood changes and she becomes less aware of what is happening outside her body, and more aware of what is happening inside her body.
5 mins to read
Second Trimester
Physical changes
4 mins to read
Food choices for a healthy pregnancy
-
5 mins to read
Checklist - preparing to bring baby home
Clothing
5 mins to read
Signs of labour
The following signs of labour may occur in any order.
1. Progressive contractions
5 mins to read
Third trimester
Physical changes
5 mins to read
Nutrition during pregnancy
By taking responsibility for your body, you can maximise your level of wellbeing and enjoy good health.
Good nutrition is of the utmost importance during your pregnancy
5 mins to read
Single parent
Today an increasing number of women are facing the challenges of pregnancy, birth and parenthood alone. This may be through personal choice or circumstantial.
2 mins to read
Variations and interventions in labour and birth
Each woman’s labour is unique and unpredictable. It is important therefore that you are prepared for all the possible eventualities and you keep an open mind.
1 min to read
Labour support
Labour support is a concept that has been around for thousands of years.
5 mins to read
Personal considerations
You may need to consider some personal issues before you become pregnant.
1 min to read
Contact your doctor
What signs and symptoms during pregnancy to be aware about.
5 mins to read
Protein in Pregnancy
Protein (and the amino acids within) is the most important building blocks for all human cells. Given the rapid cell development of your baby-to-be it should be an essential part of your diet.
5 mins to read
Vaginal birth
In most instances, the baby’s head is the presenting part that moves into your pelvis before labour begins.
5 mins to read
Unexpected outcomes
All parents worry about the possibility of complications such as prematurity, abnormality, stillbirth and neonatal death.
5 mins to read
Tips to budget for baby
There are many factors to consider before dedicating yourself to raising and budgeting a child for the next 18 years or more.
5 mins to read
First visit
A detailed medical history, of you and your partner, will be recorded at your first prenatal visit.
2 mins to read
