WeMoms
2 Apr 2024

The Third Stage of Labor: Delivering the Placenta

Childbirth
Stages of labor
The Third Stage of Labor: Delivering the Placenta
After the intense journey of the first and second stages of labor, which involve cervical dilation and the birth of your baby, comes the third and final stage of labor - delivering the placenta.
This stage is crucial for completing the birthing process and ensuring your health post-delivery.
Key Facts
The third stage of labor begins right after the birth of your baby and ends with the delivery of the placenta, the organ that has nourished your baby throughout your pregnancy.
The Process of Placenta Delivery
  • What Happens: After your baby is born, your uterus will continue to contract, helping the placenta separate from the uterine wall and descend to the birth canal.
  • Signs of Separation: You might feel additional contractions and an urge to push again. There might be a gush of blood from the vagina as the placenta detaches.
  • Delivery of the Placenta: You'll deliver the placenta by pushing it out, similar to how you delivered your baby, though usually with less effort and discomfort.
Duration and Management
  • Duration: The third stage can last from a few minutes to half an hour. It's generally the shortest phase of labor.
  • Active Management: Many healthcare providers practice active management, which includes administering a uterotonic drug to help the uterus contract, gently pulling on the umbilical cord, and massaging the uterus to reduce bleeding and facilitate placenta expulsion.
After the Placenta is Delivered
  • Examination: Your healthcare provider will examine the placenta and membranes to ensure they are complete and nothing is left inside the uterus.
  • Monitoring: You'll be monitored for any excessive bleeding and signs of complications.
  • Initial Recovery: This is a time for you to rest, bond with your baby, and begin breastfeeding if you're planning to do so.
What to Do Next
  • Bond with Your Baby: The third stage is an excellent time for skin-to-skin contact and initiating breastfeeding, which helps the uterus contract and reduce blood loss.
  • Stay Informed: Be aware of how your healthcare provider is managing the third stage and communicate any concerns.
Q&As
  1. Is delivering the placenta painful?
  2. What if the placenta doesn't come out on its own?
  3. How can I help with the delivery of the placenta?
  4. What happens immediately after the placenta is delivered?
  5. Can I see or keep my placenta?
The third stage of labor is the final step in your birthing process.
Understanding what it involves can help you feel more prepared and less anxious about what to expect.
As you welcome your baby into the world, remember that your healthcare team is there to support you through every stage, ensuring a safe and healthy delivery for both you and your child.
You've made it through an incredible journey, and now it's time to embrace the joy and love that comes with meeting your baby.
You are strong, and you have done beautifully!
T
Tabitha
9 Dec 2023

Any one else diagnosed with Complete Placenta Privea? I’m worried about it not moving and the possibility of delivering early. Not to mention the possibility of bleeding anytime 🤯 #21 weeks #stressed #3rd pregnancy #bleeding #placenta privea

Childbirth Stages of labor
1 comments
Y
Yoly
I had it with my first pregnancy , the doctor recommend me 0 intercouse and resting !! Delivered my boy at 38 weeks because my water broke !!
27 Mar 2024

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S
Shana
4 Mar 2023

Anyone else have an anterior placenta. If so when did your baby start kicking. This is my third pregnancy.

Childbirth Stages of labor
5 comments
S
Shana
I feel the movements but no kicking. And my baby is laying traverse
27 Mar 2024

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G
Gilda
I started feeling light flutters and bubbles around 20 weeks. Didn’t feel baby start moving til 21 weeks. Still a hit or miss when she does want to move so makes me nervous all the time.
27 Mar 2024

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