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1Scan for outdated or missing drivers - takes under a minute2Clear out junk files and repair common Windows errors3Fix the driver behind crashes, sound loss and screen glitchesHere, “birth” means human childbirth: labour, delivery, and the immediate care of the woman and newborn—not birth registration or birth statistics. The World Health Organization (WHO) notes that “Every pregnancy and birth is unique.”
What happens during birth?
Childbirth care covers more than the moment a baby is delivered. WHO organizes care around labour and birth, the stages of labour, immediate newborn care, and immediate care of the woman after birth. Postnatal care continues beyond this immediate period.
Birth is not a single predictable sequence for everyone. Labour may progress at different rates, and care needs can change. Skilled health personnel support routine childbirth and are also equipped to recognize when additional attention, referral, or emergency response is needed, according to a 2018 joint statement from WHO and partner organizations.
What are the stages of labour?
First stage: the cervix opens
WHO describes the latent first stage as painful contractions with variable cervical change and slower dilation up to 5 cm. The active first stage begins at 5 cm, with regular painful contractions, substantial effacement, and more rapid dilation until the cervix is fully dilated.
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WHO says there is no established standard duration for the latent phase, which can vary widely. Its guidance says active first-stage labour usually does not extend beyond 12 hours in first labours and 10 hours in subsequent labours. These are population-level guidance statements, not a personal timetable or a reason to postpone contacting a qualified maternity professional about concerns.
Second stage: birth of the baby
The second stage is part of WHO’s childbirth-care framework and concerns the birth itself. The guidance emphasizes care throughout labour and birth rather than a single method or position that is right for everyone.
Third stage and immediate care
WHO’s framework includes care during the third stage, followed by immediate care for the newborn and the woman after birth. The exact care required depends on the circumstances; a qualified clinician can advise on individual needs.
What is a positive childbirth experience?
WHO’s positive childbirth experience framework includes respectful treatment and dignity, clear communication from maternity staff, and support from a companion of the person’s choice. It also includes pain-relief strategies, mobility during labour, and choice of birth position. These are useful points to discuss when considering care preferences, while recognizing that circumstances may affect which options are available.
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- Communication and consent: Ask how staff explain options and involve the person giving birth in decisions.
- Support: Discuss whether a chosen companion can be present.
- Pain relief: Ask what strategies are available in the planned care setting.
- Movement and position: Ask how the setting supports mobility and birth-position preferences.
- Assessment and referral: Understand how staff identify concerns and arrange additional or emergency care.
Why skilled care matters
A 2018 joint statement by WHO, UNFPA, UNICEF, the International Confederation of Midwives, the International Council of Nurses, FIGO, and the International Pediatric Association defines skilled health personnel providing care during childbirth. WHO says the relevant competencies apply to normal pregnancies and childbirth as well as situations that need additional attention, referral, or emergency response. This broad guidance cannot determine an individual’s risks or the right care plan; those questions belong with qualified clinicians.
Birth statistics depend on place and year
Birth counts need a stated geography and reporting year. In the United States, the National Center for Health Statistics reported 3,628,934 births in 2024, or 10.7 births per 1,000 population. These are U.S. figures for 2024, not global totals or a count for the current year. U.S. birth certificates are required under state laws, while federal law mandates national collection and publication through the National Vital Statistics System, a cooperative effort of NCHS and the states.
For global context, WHO’s maternal-health overview presents an estimate of 287,000 maternal deaths during and following pregnancy in 2020. This is a dated estimate with a different measure and scope from a birth count; it should not be read as a current-year figure or directly compared with U.S. births.
Independent reader supportYour contribution helps us test, update, and keep practical guides available for everyone.Further reading for care providers
WHO’s Pregnancy, childbirth, postpartum and newborn care: A guide for essential practice, third edition (2015), is an evidence-based guide for skilled attendants at primary-care level. It covers childbirth, postpartum care, and routine and emergency newborn care at birth and during the first week or later. It is intended for care providers, not a substitute for individualized clinical advice.
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