Partograph Active Phase Components Explained

The active phase of labor, monitored using a partograph, represents the period of most rapid cervical change. Understanding its components is crucial for monitoring labor progress.

Components of the Active Phase

• Acceleration Phase: The initial part where cervical dilation begins to speed up.
• Phase of Maximum Slope: The period exhibiting the fastest rate of cervical dilation. This is the core of the active phase.
• Deceleration Phase: Following the maximum slope, this phase notes a slowing down of the dilation rate as the cervix approaches full dilation (10 cm).

Identifying the Non-Component

The "Phase of expulsion" refers to the second stage of labor, characterized by pushing and the delivery of the baby. This stage occurs *after* the active phase of cervical dilation (which is part of the first stage of labor) is complete.

Therefore, the phase of expulsion is not considered a component of the active phase as depicted on the partograph for monitoring cervical dilation.