Final answer:
Childbirth consists of three stages: cervical dilation, where the cervix dilates to 10 cm; delivery of the baby, facilitated by uterine contractions and abdominal muscle compression; and delivery of the placenta, after the baby is born.
Step-by-step explanation:
Stages of Childbirth:
The process of childbirth is divided into three primary stages. The first stage, known as cervical dilation, is when the cervix thins and dilates to approximately 10 cm, which is the required width to allow the newborn's head to pass through. This stage can last between 6 to 12 hours and is the longest stage of labor. The second stage involves the expulsion of the baby, where the uterus contracts and the person giving birth uses abdominal muscles to aid in delivery.
Finally, the third stage is characterized by the delivery of the placenta, which occurs after the baby has been born and the placenta has detached from the uterine wall. If necessary, synthetic oxytocin, also known as Pitocin, may be used to restart or maintain labor if it stalls before reaching the second stage.