What generally happens to the cervix during stage three of labor?

• A. Cervical dilation occurs
• B. The placenta is delivered
• C. Contractions cease
• D. Bonding with the infant starts

Answer: (B)

During stage three of labor, the primary focus is on the expulsion of the placenta from the uterus after the birth of the baby. This stage typically occurs immediately after the delivery of the infant and is crucial to ensure that the placenta is delivered completely to prevent complications such as hemorrhage or infection.

Cervical dilation is primarily relevant to the earlier stages of labor (the first stage), where the cervix opens to allow the baby to pass through the birth canal. By stage three, the cervix has usually reached full dilation during the second stage of labor, which is when the baby is delivered.

While bonding with the infant does indeed begin to take place during this stage, it is not the primary focus of what is happening during stage three in terms of physical processes. Additionally, contractions are present but may lessen in intensity as the body works to expel the placenta. Ultimately, the successful and important event that defines stage three is the delivery of the placenta, which is why this choice is the correct answer.