Final answer:
There are traditionally three stages of labor: cervical dilation, expulsion of the baby, and delivery of the afterbirth. Should labor pause before the second stage, synthetic oxytocin (Pitocin) can be used to restart it.
Step-by-step explanation:
The steps involved in labor and delivery are comprehensive, and it's important to note that traditionally childbirth is described as having three primary stages. The first stage is characterized by the cervical thinning and dilation which is necessary for the baby and placenta to pass through during birth, culminating with the cervix dilating to about 10 cm. In the second stage, the expulsion of the baby occurs as the uterus contracts and the individual giving birth pushes by compressing their abdominal muscles to aid in delivery. The third and final stage involves the delivery of the afterbirth, which is the placenta and associated fetal membranes, following the birth of the baby once the placenta has fully detached from the uterine wall.
On occasions where labor halts before reaching the second stage, a synthetic form of oxytocin called Pitocin can be administered to help restart and maintain labor progress. However, if a fourth stage of labor is referred to, it usually concerns the immediate postpartum period where monitoring for complications like excessive bleeding and ensuring the well-being of the mother is continuous.