Which stage of labor involves the delivery of the placenta?

The third stage of labor is characterized by the delivery of the placenta. This stage follows the birth of the baby and is crucial for the mother's recovery. During this phase, the uterus continues to contract, which helps detach the placenta from the uterine wall and facilitates its expulsion from the body. Understanding this stage is important because the management of the third stage, including monitoring for excessive bleeding and ensuring the placenta is fully expelled, is vital for preventing complications such as postpartum hemorrhage.

The first stage involves the onset of labor and the gradual dilation of the cervix, while the second stage begins when the cervix is fully dilated and ends with the delivery of the baby. The latent phase, although part of the first stage, specifically refers to the early part where contractions may be irregular and the cervix begins to efface and dilate. None of these stages address the delivery of the placenta, which is a key aspect of the third stage. Therefore, the delivery of the placenta is distinctly identified as part of this stage in the labor process.