First stage of labor

first stage of labor


First stage of labor begin from the onset of true labor pain and end with the full dilation of the cervix. The approximately time is 12 hours during the first pregnancy and 6 hours in following pregnancy. Dilation of cervix up to 3cm is called a latent phase and dilation of cervix to 10cm is called active phase of first labor.
 This stage is clinically accompanied  with progressive uterine contractions, cervical dilation and rupture of membrane. Maternal and fetus remain normal in this stage except during uterine contractions, where fetus heart rate will be reduced physiologically.
 At this stage, no much intervention done rather than let nature takes its own place. Women should be encouraged, given support, make them stable psychologically and in some areas anti pain  is given in the course of labor.