Physiology Stage 1 Of Labour

Question 1

What happens in the latent phase of stage 1 of labour

Answer 1

• Lasts normally 6-8 hours (can vary)
• cervix dilates from 0-4 cm
• cervix faces from 3 to 0.5cm
• irregular contractions lasting 50 secs come every 5-10 mins

Question 2

What happens in the active phase of the first stage of labour?

Answer 2

• begins when the cervix is 4cm dilated (established labour)
• cervix undergoes more rapid dilatation to 8-9cm
• cervix becomes fully effaced
• strong contraction lasting 60-90 secs each
• more frequent contractions every 2-3 mins
• amniotic sac normally ruptures now

Question 3

What happens in the transition phase of the first stage of labour?

Answer 3

• starts at around 8cm
• cervix continues to dilate but at a slower pace until fully (10cm)
• cervix is fully effaced
• rapid descent of the babies head lower into the Pelli is and deeper into the birth canal.