What is the focus of Stage 2 in the birth process?

Stage 2 of the birth process is primarily characterized by the delivery of the fetus. During this stage, the baby's descent through the birth canal occurs as a result of strong contractions of the uterus, which aid in the pushing mechanism. The focus is on the mother's ability to push effectively and the baby's position as it navigates through the cervix and into the world.

Understanding this stage highlights the critical transition from labor to active delivery. The physiological changes and efforts involved in this stage are significant, as they directly result in the baby being born, marking a pivotal moment in childbirth. Other stages of the birth process, such as cervical dilation or expulsion of the placenta, occur at different points in the labor process and are not the focus of Stage 2, which is dedicated explicitly to the delivery of the fetus.