In transition, contractions may be ___ long and occur every ___.

• A. 60 seconds - 90 seconds every 1-2 minutes
• B. 90 seconds - 2-3 minutes
• C. 30-60 seconds every 3-4 minutes
• D. 2-3 minutes every 5-6 minutes

Answer: (B)

During transition the pattern of contractions changes to be both long and frequent. They typically last about 90 seconds and come every 2 to 3 minutes, reflecting the body’s push toward full dilation. This is the peak intensity of labor, with strong sensations and little rest between contractions, often accompanied by signs like nausea, shaking, or a strong urge to push. The other patterns don’t fit transition: shorter contractions or longer gaps imply an earlier phase, while very long intervals aren’t consistent with the rapid progression toward pushing.