The first stage of labour

The beginning of the birth is known as the dilation phase. Now you will feel the uterus contracting in regular intervals: this is known as contractions. The contractions push the baby’s head towards the cervix, which continually opens up.
Once the cervix has reached 10 centimetres, people say: The cervix is fully opened or dilated.

This section of the birth takes the longest, often several hours.

In case of weaker contractions, an infusion with a uterotonic could be necessary.
If the amniotic sac does not burst on its own, the doctor or midwife will open the amniotic sac.