Fertility and Pregnancy - Preparing for Birth Flashcards
What should a birth plan include?
Types of care (home birth, hospital birth, water birth), inductions, pain relief options, who will be present, heart rate monitoring, 3rd stage of labour (placenta delivery), delayed cord clamping, and vitamin K injections.
What are some pain relief options for labor?
Birthing pool, TENs machine, gas and air, epidural, pethidine, homeopathy, acupuncture.
What is the benefit of delayed cord clamping?
Babies can get 30% more iron-rich blood, oxygen, erythrocytes, leukocytes, and stem cells.
Why is a postpartum plan important?
It prepares for support at home, food prep, household chores, and lactation assistance.
Why is skin-to-skin contact important after birth?
It promotes bonding, helps regulate the baby’s temperature, and supports breastfeeding.
Should the vernix caseosa be wiped off after birth?
No, it’s a protective layer and should not be wiped off; it should stay on the baby’s skin.
What is the purpose of perineal massage?
It helps make the perineum more flexible to reduce the risk of tears and the need for an episiotomy during childbirth.
When should perineal massage be started during pregnancy?
From 34 weeks, 1–2 times per week.
When should perineal massage be avoided?
In cases of vaginal herpes, thrush, or other vaginal infections.
What is the benefit of drinking red raspberry leaf tea in late pregnancy?
It’s a uterine tonic that can help improve labor and strengthen uterine muscles.
