What is a typical sign of the latent phase of labor?

The latent phase of labor is characterized by the initial emergence of labor symptoms and typically involves gradual cervical changes. During this phase, it is common for the cervix to be dilated around 0 to 3 centimeters, although reaching 2 centimeters is a typical indicator within this phase.

At this time, contractions may be mild and irregular, allowing for the gradual effacement and dilation of the cervix. As the latent phase progresses, the cervix will continue to dilate towards the active phase, which generally starts at around 4 centimeters. Recognizing the latent phase is essential in managing labor and reassuring the laboring individual, as it can often be longer and less intense than following phases.

Other options, including complete dilation or regular contractions every 5 minutes, pertain to later stages of labor, such as the active phase or transition phase, and thus do not describe the latent phase accurately.