Stages Of Labour.

Labour is defined as a sequence of involuntary uterine contractions resulting in progressive cervical dilatation, fetal descent, and eventual birth (Cunningham et al., 2022). Globally, childbirth remains a critical determinant of maternal and neonatal health outcomes. While labour is a natural event, it carries potential risks; therefore, structured knowledge of its stages helps clinicians recognise normal patterns and intervene when complications arise. The process traditionally includes three main stages: the first stage (cervical dilatation), the second stage (expulsion of the fetus), and the third stage (delivery of the placenta). Additionally, some authors include a “latent” and “active” phase within the first stage, highlighting differences in contraction patterns and cervical progression (WHO, 2018). The purpose of this article is to synthesise and analyse current evidence regarding each stage of labour, its physiological basis, and contemporary management practices.