Which phase of labor occurs after full dilation of the cervix?

The second phase of labor, which follows the full dilation of the cervix, involves the actual delivery of the baby. During this phase, the mother's body works to push the baby through the birth canal. This phase begins once the cervix is fully dilated to 10 centimeters and continues until the baby is born.

Understanding this phase is crucial for EMTs and healthcare providers as it represents a critical time when monitoring the mother and fetus is essential. Key signs of the second phase include increased contractions and the mother’s urges to push. This stage can vary in duration from just a few minutes to several hours, depending on various factors such as whether the mother has given birth before. The subsequent phases—such as the third phase, which involves the delivery of the placenta—occur after the second phase concludes with the baby's birth.