Labor is the process of giving birth—when your body works to bring your baby into the world.
Stages of labor:
- Early labor – mild, irregular contractions; cervix begins to open
- Active labor – stronger, closer contractions; cervix dilates faster
- Transition – most intense contractions; cervix fully opens (10 cm)
- Pushing & birth – urge to push; baby is born
- Afterbirth – placenta is delivered