Which of the following is NOT one of the three stages of labor?

The identification of "Contraction" as not being one of the three stages of labor highlights a fundamental understanding of the birthing process. The correct stages of labor include dilation, expulsion, and placental.

Dilation refers to the first stage where the cervix opens to allow the baby to pass through. This stage is crucial as it prepares the body for the delivery itself. The expulsion stage occurs next, during which the mother actively pushes the baby out through the birth canal. Following this, the placental stage involves the delivery of the placenta after the baby has been born.

While contractions are indeed a vital part of the labor process—helping facilitate the stages of dilation and expulsion—they are not recognized as a standalone stage. Understanding these stages helps clarify the overall process of childbirth, ensuring that individuals are informed about what to expect during labor.