What signifies the start of the second stage of labor?

The second stage of labor is defined as the period that begins when the cervix is fully dilated to 10 centimeters and ends with the delivery of the baby. The significance of complete cervical dilation is crucial, as it indicates that the mother can begin to push effectively, and the baby's descent through the birth canal can commence.

During this phase, contractions help to guide the baby down and out of the birth canal. It is essential to reach full dilation to not only ensure the safety of the mother and baby but also to allow for a more effective and coordinated effort during the pushing process. Thus, complete cervical dilation at 10 cm marks the transition from the first stage of labor, where dilation occurs, to the second stage, where actual delivery takes place.