Understanding the Stages of Labor: A Guide for Expectant Mothers

10. Stage One: Transition Phase

The labor process slows down again during the final phase of stage one. Contractions occur every few minutes and last between 60 and 90 seconds. Transition continues for 15 to 60 minutes. A mother may feel a strong urge to push during this phase. However, if she is not fully dilated, the obstetrical team discourages her from doing so. Pressure in the lower back, rectum, or groin area becomes more intense. Once the cervix is completely open and dilated to 10 centimeters, the second stage of labor begins. The physician or birthing attendant tells the mother she can push. This pushing and the force of the contractions work together to move the baby through the birth canal and out the vaginal opening.