What happens during the first stage of labor during a vaginal delivery?
• During the first stage of labor, your uterus contracts to help your cervix dilate (open) and efface (soften and thin). This will allow your baby to exit the womb so you can push your baby out of the birth canal. You will have regular contractions that occur more often and may become more painful over time. During the first stage of labor, the amniotic sac (fluid sac that surrounds your baby in the womb) may break open. You may hear your caregiver say that your water broke. When your water breaks, you may have a slow leaking or a gush of fluid from your vagina. Your water may break open by itself or your caregiver may need to break your water. Caregivers will do vaginal exams to check how much your cervix has dilated during this stage. Caregivers may give you medicine to induce (start) your labor if the first stage is moving too slowly. • During the first stage of labor, caregivers may have you change your position in bed. Caregivers may also suggest you stand or walk during this time
