Which stage of labor is defined by 0-6 cm cervical dilation?

The correct identification of the stage of labor defined by 0-6 cm of cervical dilation is the latent phase of the first stage of labor. During this phase, the cervix begins to efface and dilate gradually, typically progressing from 0 to about 6 cm.

In the latent phase, contractions may become more regular and noticeable, but they often are not sufficiently strong or close together to lead to significant cervical change in many women. This phase can vary greatly in duration, lasting from several hours to days. It’s characterized by the onset of labor until the cervix reaches 6 cm of dilation.

Understanding the distinctions between the latent phase and the active phase of the first stage is critical in obstetric practice. The active phase, which follows the latent phase, is defined by more rapid cervical dilation of 6 cm to 10 cm. In this phase, the contractions are generally stronger, more regular, and more frequent, marking a shift in the labor progress.

Stages 2 and 3 of labor refer to the delivery of the baby and the expulsion of the placenta, respectively, and do not relate to the dilation measurements of the cervix during the first stage of labor. Thus, the correct choice regarding the definition