Third Stage

The third stage begins with the birth of the baby and ends with the delivery of the placenta. It is the shortest stage, lasting from 5 to 15 minutes. Your contractions may stop for a while, then resume to deliver the placenta. You will be observed closely for the next few hours to make certain that your uterus is contracting and bleeding is not excessive. The nurse will massage your uterus, or your lower abdomen to check that the uterus is contracting. Take this time to rest and get acquainted with your new baby.