Preparing to have a baby is both exciting and nerve-wracking for any mom-to-be. It’s natural to wonder what labor will feel like and how long childbirth will take. While every birth is unique, understanding the stages of labor can help you feel more confident and prepared for the big day.
What happens during labor and childbirth?
Childbirth, also known medically as parturition, is the process of delivering a baby from the uterus. Labor begins when contractions start helping your cervix thin (efface) and open (dilate) and ends when your baby and placenta are delivered.
There are three stages of natural childbirth:
- First stage of childbirth: Early and active labor
- Second stage of childbirth: Pushing and birth of the baby
- Third stage of childbirth: Delivery of the placenta
What is the average time for childbirth?
“Every birth is different, so the average timeline for women to give birth will vary from person to person,” said Robyn Lindenmeyer, director of nursing operations for OSF HealthCare. “But research gives us an average that can be a good guideline for new moms.”
An average labor for your first baby can last anywhere from 12 to 24 hours from the start of early labor through delivery of the placenta. Moms who have given birth before often experience a shorter average labor time of six to 12 hours.
Several factors can influence how long childbirth takes:
- First baby vs. subsequent births
- Baby’s position (head-down or posterior)
- Strength and regularity of contractions
- Whether you have a natural birth, a c-section or use pain medication or an epidural
- Emotional and physical readiness
Stage One: Early and Active Labor
The first stage of labor begins when contractions become regular, and your cervix starts to open. It ends when your cervix is fully dilated to ten centimeters, and your body is ready to push.
The first stage of labor typically lasts the longest, especially for first-time moms. It’s divided into two phases: early labor and active labor.
Early Labor
During early labor, your cervix dilates from zero to about six centimeters. Contractions are mild to moderate, often lasting 30–60 seconds and coming every 5–20 minutes.
You might notice vaginal discharge of mucus tinged with blood (called a “bloody show”), feel cramps or experience lower back pressure. As long as your pregnancy is not considered high risk, you might choose to stay home during this part of labor.
“While your contractions are mild and spaced apart, it’s okay to stay home and rest,” said Robyn. “You’ll want to time your contractions so you can make sure you are getting to the hospital in time.”
Early labor can last 6–12 hours, or sometimes longer for first-time moms.
Tips for early labor:
- Stay hydrated and try to relax between contractions.
- Eat light snacks for energy.
- Use breathing, movement or massage to stay comfortable.
Active Labor
Time to go to the hospital?
Active labor begins when your cervix is around six centimeters dilated and contractions become stronger and closer together, lasting 45–60 seconds and happening every three-five minutes.
Most OB/GYNs recommend going to the hospital when your contractions reach these intervals. You’ll likely find it difficult to talk or move through contractions at this stage, and you might feel increasing pressure in your back or pelvis.
Active labor often lasts four-eight hours for first-time moms. It’s typically shorter for those who’ve given birth before. During this stage, your health care team monitors your baby’s heart rate and your contractions until you are fully dilated and ready to deliver. At OSF HealthCare, moms benefit from our 24/7 virtual labor monitoring service, which provides an extra layer of safety and real-time support.
What about Braxton-Hicks contractions?
You might experience Braxton-Hicks contractions, also known as false labor. These “practice contractions” help your uterus get ready for the real thing. They’re usually felt higher in the abdomen and don’t become stronger or closer together.
When to Go to the Hospital
Timing your contractions helps you know when it’s time to come to the hospital.
“Typically, with the first pregnancy, we want you to come to the hospital when contractions are occurring every three to five minutes regularly for about an hour,” explained Robyn.
You should also go to the hospital if your water breaks, or if you experience bleeding, reduced fetal movement or severe pain.
“If your water breaks, or you’re having trouble talking through contractions, that’s your cue to come in,” Robyn says. “If your pregnancy is uncomplicated, it’s okay to do a lot of that laboring at home, in the comfort of your own space.”
Stage Two: Pushing and Delivery of the Baby
Once your cervix reaches ten centimeters, you enter the second stage of childbirth, the delivery of your baby.
You’ll begin pushing with each contraction as your baby moves through the birth canal. You may feel strong pressure, like the urge to have a bowel movement.
When your baby’s head begins to show, it’s called “crowning.” Your provider will guide you through controlled breathing and gentle pushes to safely deliver your baby.
The delivery, or pushing, stage typically lasts 30 minutes to two hours for first-time moms and 15-45 minutes for experienced moms.
Stage Three: Delivery of the Placenta
After your baby is born, you will deliver the placenta, the organ that nourished your baby during your pregnancy.
You’ll feel mild contractions again, and your provider may gently guide the placenta out by pulling on the umbilical cord or massaging your uterus.
This stage usually takes five–30 minutes. You may feel shaky or have chills as your hormones shift and your body begins to recover.
How long does a C-section take?
The C-section surgery itself is usually brief, generally lasting 30–60 minutes from the start of anesthesia to closing the incision.
It can take several hours for the numbness from the spinal block to fully wear off.
Be Prepared for Childbirth
Every labor and delivery experience is unique. If you ever feel unsure about what’s happening or when to go to the hospital, call your OB/GYN or birthing provider. They’re there to guide you.
Childbirth is one of the most deeply personal experiences you will ever have. Knowing what to expect during all three stages of labor can help reduce fear and build confidence for the moment you finally meet your baby.
Last Updated: November 6, 2025