Active labor
Active labor begins once the cervix reaches around 6 centimetres dilated and continues until it is fully open at 10 centimetres. Contractions become longer, stronger, and more regular, typically coming every 3 to 5 minutes and lasting 45 to 60 seconds. Most women find active labor significantly more intense than the latent phase and need focused breathing or pain relief to manage. This is the stage when most hospitals encourage you to come in. Cervical progress tends to be more steady during active labor, though the pace still varies from person to person.
What This Means for You
Understanding Active labor is an important part of your labor journey. When preparing for birth, understanding this term helps you discuss your birth preferences with your midwife or OB-GYN and know what to expect in the delivery room.
Explore our Birth & Labour guideGood to Know
Under current guidelines used at KKH and NUH, active labor is considered to start at 6 cm rather than the older 4 cm definition, so do not be surprised if staff encourage you to wait longer at home.
Related Terms
Source: https://www.nhs.uk/pregnancy/labour-and-birth/the-stages-of-labour-and-birth/
Always consult your healthcare provider for personalised advice.
Free Tools for Singapore Parents
Put your knowledge into action with our free calculators and trackers.