duration of first stage of labour
First Stage of Labor. The first stage of labor is the longest and involves three phases: Early Labor Phase âThe time of the onset of labor until the cervix is dilated to 3 cm. Active Labor Phase â Continues from 3 cm. until the cervix is dilated to 7 cm. Transition Phase â Continues from 7 cm. until the cervix is fully dilated to 10 cm.
Early labor will last approximately 8-12 hours. 1  Your cervix will efface and dilate to 3 cm. 2  Contractions will last about 30-45 seconds, giving you 5-30 minutes of rest between contractions. 3  Contractions are typically mild and somewhat irregular but become progressively stronger and more frequent.
Active labor: Often lasts up to 8 hours on average. For some women, active labor may be even longer while it may be much shorter for others (especially those who've had a previous vaginal delivery). Longer labors including both early and active labors: Reported averages are at just over 17 hours.