Doula

Answer: D - The second stage of labor begins once the cervix is fully dilated and encompasses pushing and, ultimately, the birth of the baby. It can last anywhere from 15 minutes to three hours. Some women experience a brief pause between full dilation and the urge to push, as the uterus contracts several times to fit better around the baby's body, which has moved down into the birth canal. Dilation and effacement are the first stage of labor. Pre-labor contractions are non-progressing, "practice contractions" that do not lead to opening and thinning of the cervix. Delivery of the placenta marks the third stage of labor.