Pushing Stage Basics

Overview of the second stage of labor

Overview of the second stage of labor

Definition and clinical boundaries The second stage of labor is defined as the interval from full cervical dilation, usually described as 10 centimeters, to delivery of the baby. This boundary matters because the cervix is no longer the main structure changing; attention shifts to how the fetus descends through the pelvis, rotates, and ultimately births […]

Pushing stage for second birth

Pushing stage for second birth

Where the pushing stage fits in a second birth The pushing stage is the active part of the second stage of labor, which starts once the cervix is fully dilated. In many labors, it is preceded by a quieter period of passive descent during labor, when contractions continue and the baby moves lower before strong […]

Pushing stage for first-time moms

Pushing stage for first-time moms

What the pushing stage is The pushing stage begins in the second stage of labor after full cervical dilation, when contractions continue and the baby moves lower through the pelvis. For a first-time mom, this can feel different from earlier labor because the work becomes more focused and often more physically demanding. Some people feel […]