During what stage of labor does cervical dilation reach 10 cm?

Cervical dilation reaching 10 cm marks a significant milestone in the process of labor. This occurs during the transition phase, which is characterized by the most intense and rapid changes in the cervix. During this phase, contractions become very strong, frequent, and painful, and the cervix dilates from approximately 7-8 cm to fully dilated at 10 cm.

This stage is crucial because full dilation indicates that the mother is nearing the end of the first stage of labor and is preparing for the second stage, which involves the pushing and delivery of the baby. The transition phase typically lasts only a short time, although it can be challenging due to the intensity of the contractions and the physical and emotional demands on the laboring individual.

In contrast, early labor is the initial phase characterized by slow cervical changes, and active labor involves more rapid dilation but does not reach the full 10 cm until the transition phase. The delivery phase refers to the time when the baby is being pushed out and is not associated with cervical dilation but rather with the actual birth process. Understanding these stages helps in recognizing the progression of labor and the needs of the laboring individual.