This is usually the longest and least intense phase of labor. Your contractions during this time are mild to moderate, and not really consistent. Active Labor is when your contractions become stronger, longer, and occur more often, usually about three to four minutes apart. These stronger contractions cause your cervix to dilate to about seven centimeters. At this point, you should be at the hospital, or on your way.
Transition is the most exhausting phase of labor.
This is when you'll dilate the final three centimeters to a full ten centimeters. This phase of labor is the most difficult, so you should try to rest as much as possible in between contractions. Now that you're fully dilated, it's time to push your baby through the birth canal. This process may take a half-hour, or several hours. Your health care provider will help you get in a comfortable pushing position.