What occurs during the third stage of labor?

During the third stage of labor, the focus is on the delivery of the placenta after the baby has been born. This stage typically begins immediately after the birth of the infant and continues until the placenta is fully expelled from the uterus. This process is crucial because it involves the contraction of the uterine muscles, which helps to prevent excessive bleeding by compressing blood vessels that were formerly attached to the placenta.

The duration of this stage can vary, but it is generally shorter than the previous stages. The successful expulsion of the placenta is an important milestone in the birthing process and is monitored closely by healthcare providers to ensure maternal safety and health. Understanding this stage is critical for nurses, as complications can arise if the placenta is retained or if there is excessive bleeding, requiring prompt assessment and intervention.

The other stages mentioned in the options relate to different phases of labor: the onset of contractions, dilation, or recovery post-birth, but not specifically to the delivery of the placenta.