Although no birth is typical, this column will attempt to describe what goes on in the standard hospital delivery.
Labor is divided into three stages.
The first involves changes leading to childbirth, the second is the birth itself, and the third involves the expulsion of the placenta. First Stage The first stage of labor can begin with one or more of three signs. One is repeated contractions . Early contractions feel like a tightening of the abdomen and are generally not uncomfortable. As contractions get stronger, the tight feeling is accompanied by a strong sense of pressure, usually in the lower back.