Which stage of labor is characterized by the cervix beginning to dilate?

The first stage of labor is characterized by the cervix beginning to dilate. This stage is the longest part of the labor process and is divided into three phases: early labor, active labor, and transition. During this stage, the body prepares for delivery, and the cervix opens to allow the baby to pass through the birth canal.

In the early phase, the cervix dilates up to about 3 centimeters, often with mild contractions. As labor progresses into the active phase, the cervix continues to dilate from around 4 to 7 centimeters, with contractions becoming stronger and more frequent. The transition phase occurs towards the end of the first stage, where the cervix dilates from 8 to 10 centimeters, and contractions reach their peak intensity.

The second stage of labor follows the first and begins once the cervix is fully dilated (10 centimeters), leading to the birth of the baby. The transition stage refers specifically to the phase within the first stage where dilation is near completion, but it is still encompassed within the first stage overall. Lastly, the postpartum stage occurs after the baby is born and involves recovery and management of the mother's health and bonding with the newborn. Thus, the first stage is the correct