During what stage of labor is the umbilical cord typically cut?

The umbilical cord is typically cut during the third stage of labor. This stage begins after the delivery of the baby and concludes with the expulsion of the placenta and membranes. Cutting the cord involves separating the newborn from the placenta, which is essential for initiating the newborn's independent respiratory and circulatory functions.

The first stage of labor primarily focuses on the dilation of the cervix, where contractions help bring about this change, but it does not involve the delivery of the baby. The second stage is when the baby is actually delivered, marked by a mother's urges to push and the emergence of the baby through the birth canal. The transition stage is often identified as a part of the first stage, typically occurring when the cervix is almost fully dilated and the mother experiences intense labor leading up to delivery. However, the umbilical cord is not addressed until after the baby has been delivered and the third stage has begun, making this the appropriate time for cutting the cord.