At what stage are contractions typically longer in duration and shorten in intervals?

The labor stage is characterized by the onset of regular contractions that progressively increase in intensity, duration, and frequency as labor progresses. During this phase, the contractions become longer, lasting around 60 to 90 seconds, and the intervals between them shorten, often becoming as close as two to three minutes apart. This pattern is essential for cervical dilation, which is necessary for the delivery of the baby.

In contrast, the prenatal stage consists of the weeks and months leading up to labor, where contractions, if they occur, are typically Braxton Hicks contractions, which are irregular and do not contribute to cervical dilation. The postpartum stage follows the delivery of the baby and involves recovery and reintegration, with contractions primarily helping the uterus return to its pre-pregnancy size. The pre-labor stage may include early or prodromal labor, where contractions may begin to occur but are often inconsistent and do not follow the established pattern typical of true labor contractions.