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labor (laŽbәr)   the physiologic process by which the uterus expels the products of conception (fetus or newborn and placenta), after 20 or more weeks of gestation. It may be divided into three stages: The first stage (dilatation stage) begins with the onset of regular uterine contractions and ends when the cervical os is completely dilated and flush with the vagina, thus completing the birth canal. The second stage (expulsion stage) extends from the end of the first stage until the expulsion of the infant is completed. The third stage (placental stage) extends from the expulsion of the child until the placenta and membrane are expelled and contraction of the uterus is completed.




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