Child birth involves 3 stages .

Stage I : This starts with the onset of true labor until the cervix is completely dilated to 10cm.

Stage II : This is after the cervix has dilated 10 cm until the delivery of the baby.

Stage III : This involves the delivery of the placenta.

Second stage of labor

Your baby will be delivered during this stage. Now that your cervix is fully dilated, it is time to start pushing.

What to expect

• This second stage will last for about  20 minutes to 2 hours. It is however longer for first time moms and mothers who have had an epidural
• contractions will last for 45 to 90 seconds with about 3 – 5 minutes intervals
• you will have a strong natural urge to push
• you may have a minor urination or bowel accident
• you may have an intense pressure at the rectum
• your baby’s head will become visible – crowning
• you will feel a burning, stinging sensation during crowning
• You healthcare provider will tell you  not  to push during  crowning

What you can

• get into pushing position that helps you use gravity at your advantage
• push when you have the urge to. Don’t hold tension in your face
• rest in between contractions to regain your strength
• use all your energy to push

What is happening to your baby

As you experience labor, your baby is also taking steps to enter this world.

• your baby’s head will turn to one side while his chin automatically rest on his chest. This is so that the back of his  head  can lead the way
• after you are fully dilated, the baby’s head leads the way. Your baby’s head and torso will begin to turn to face your back as they enter your vagina
• your baby’s head will then begin to “crown” through your vagina opening
• once his head is out, your baby’s head and shoulder will turn to your side so that he  can easily slip out

 
NOTE
 
You should note that your  baby has been in the amniotic fluid for nine months and passes through a very narrow birth canal during contractions. Therefore expect the following characteristic when your baby is delivered

• cone shaped head
• puffy eyes
• fine downy hair known as lanugo , covering his shoulders, back, forehead and temple
• vernix coating which is a  cheesy substance that coats the fetus in the uterus
• enlarged genitals

 
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