What occurs during the active phase of labor?

During the active phase of labor, significant changes occur as the body prepares for delivery. One of the key features of this phase is that it is characterized by increasingly strong and frequent contractions, which facilitate cervical dilation. It is during this active phase that membranes may rupture spontaneously, often referred to as "breaking the water." This can lead to the release of amniotic fluid and is a common occurrence as the cervix continues to dilate toward full dilation.

This phase typically follows the latent phase and is marked by a more rapid progression in cervical changes, often reaching around 6 cm of dilation. The rupture of membranes can be an important event as it may indicate that labor is progressing effectively, and in some cases, it can also signify the beginning of further labor interventions or monitoring.

In contrast to the active phase, other stages of labor do not typically feature ruptured membranes or include diminished contraction intensity. The experience of pain can vary greatly during this time, often increasing with the intensity of contractions rather than minimizing.