In the second stage of labor, patients are typically encouraged to do what?

In the second stage of labor, the primary focus is on facilitating the delivery of the baby, and this stage is characterized by the urge to push. During this stage, the cervix is fully dilated, and contractions are strong and frequent, allowing the fetus to descend through the birth canal. Encouraging patients to push assists in the descent and expulsion of the fetus, making it an essential part of the labor process.

Pushing during this stage helps to utilize the natural physiological forces at work, as the mother's contractions aid in moving the baby down the birth canal. Proper pushing techniques can promote effective labor progress and help achieve a successful vaginal delivery.

While relaxation, resting, and potentially minimizing pushing efforts might be appropriate in other contexts such as early labor or during certain medical conditions, the second stage specifically emphasizes pushing as a necessary action to facilitate childbirth. Understanding the dynamics of this stage is crucial for managing labor effectively and ensuring the safety and well-being of both the mother and the infant.