: Begins with regular uterine contractions and ends when the cervix is fully dilated (10 cm). This stage is further divided into early, active, and transitional phases.
Labor and delivery are typically divided into three distinct stages, as outlined in clinical resources like StatPearls :
: A birth where instruments like forceps or a vacuum are used to help guide the baby out of the birth canal.
Vaginal birth is the most common method of childbirth, where a baby is born through the birth canal. Healthcare providers typically prefer this method as it is generally safer for both the mother and the infant, often resulting in shorter recovery times and fewer complications in future pregnancies.
