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The document outlines the stages of childbirth, including dilation, pushing, and placenta delivery, as well as various approaches to childbirth such as natural childbirth and home delivery. It addresses common FAQs regarding gestational age, C-sections, available medications, and potential complications during labor. Resources for further information are also provided.

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5 views6 pages

Activity

The document outlines the stages of childbirth, including dilation, pushing, and placenta delivery, as well as various approaches to childbirth such as natural childbirth and home delivery. It addresses common FAQs regarding gestational age, C-sections, available medications, and potential complications during labor. Resources for further information are also provided.

Uploaded by

miethien0207
Copyright
© © All Rights Reserved
We take content rights seriously. If you suspect this is your content, claim it here.
Available Formats
Download as PDF, TXT or read online on Scribd
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LABOR & DELIVERY

STAGES OF
CHILDBIRTH
Stage 1
- Dilation and Effacement: The cervix opens and thins in
response to increases of contractions in frequency and intensity.
- Transition: Contractions peak and cervix is completely open.

Stage 2
Pushing and birth of the baby: Mother helps push the baby down
the birthing canal. Baby is born.

Stage 3
Delivery of the Placenta: Placenta is delivered.
Approaches to
Childbirth
Natural, or Prepared, Childbirth
- A group of techniques aimed at reducing pain and medical
intervention and making childbirth a rewarding experience.
- In a typical natural childbirth program, the expectant mother and a
companion participate in three activities: Classes, Relaxation and
Breathing techniques, and Labor coach.
- Social support is important to the success of natural childbirth.
Positions for Delivery
Sitting in an upright position or water births are associated with a
shorter labor and less complications.

Home Delivery
Giving birth at home. Involves either a doctor or certified nurse-
midwife.
FAQs
What is gestational age?
Gestation is the period of time between conception and birth. During
this time, the baby grows and develops inside the mother's womb. It
is measured in weeks, from the first day of the woman's last
menstrual cycle to the current date. A normal pregnancy can range
from 38 to 42 weeks.

When might Cesarean delivery (C-section) occur?


Cesarean delivery (C-section) is a surgical procedure used to
deliver a baby through incisions in the abdomen and uterus.
It can occur when:
- Your baby is in distress.
- Your baby or babies are in an abnormal position.
- You're carrying multiples, etc.
What medication is available for labor and delivery?
- Analgesics: Used to reduce pain and increase relaxation.
- Anesthetics: Blocks sensation.
- Epidural analgesia: Pain-relieving drug delivered continuously
through a catheter to the lower spine.
What are possible birth complications?
Labor that does not progress
Sometimes contractions weaken, the cervix does not dilate enough or in a
timely manner, or the infant's descent in the birth canal does not proceed
smoothly. If labor is not progressing, a health care provider may give the
woman medications to increase contractions and speed up labor, or the
woman may need a cesarean delivery.
Shoulder Dystocia
Shoulder dystocia can suddenly occur during vaginal delivery in which the baby's
shoulder becomes stuck while entering the birth canal, usually on the mother's
pelvis bone. When shoulder dystocia is not managed quickly enough the resulting
oxygen deprivation can cause brain injuries and disabilities such as cerebral
palsy. In their rush to free the baby's shoulder, doctors and nurses in the delivery
room often use too much lateral traction or force. They pull, push, and twist too
hard and too fast and end up causing physical injury to the baby.
Resources
Berk, L.E. (2021). Infants, children, and adolescents, 9th ed. Pearson.
What are some common complications during labor and delivery? | NICHD -
Eunice Kennedy Shriver National Institute of Child Health and Human
Development (nih.gov)
Most Dangerous Childbirth Complications (birthinjuryhelpcenter.org)
C-section - Mayo Clinic
Gestational age: MedlinePlus Medical Encyclopedia

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