What describes the first stage of labor?

The first stage of labor is defined as the period leading up to full cervical dilation, which is typically to 10 centimeters. During this stage, contractions become more frequent and intense, and the cervix gradually thins (effaces) and opens (dilates) to allow the baby to pass through the birth canal. This stage is crucial as it represents the preparation of the body for the actual delivery.

Recognizing the characteristics of this stage, such as the latent phase where contractions may be irregular and the active phase where they become more consistent and strong, helps in understanding the progression of labor. The other options describe different phases of the childbirth process rather than the first stage itself. For example, the recovery period after delivery refers to the postpartum stage, the delivery of the placenta occurs in the third stage, and delivery of the baby is associated with the second stage of labor. Thus, the chosen option correctly identifies the primary focus of the first stage of labor.