Labor and Birth Flashcards
dilation
the opening or enlargement of the external cervical
lightening
fetal presenting part begins to descend into the true pelvis
frequency
how often
duration
how long
intensity
how strong
false labor
occurs during the latter weeks of some pregnancies in which irregular uterine contractions are felt, but the cervix is not affected.
true labor
contractions occurring at regular intervals that increase in frequency, duration, and intensity. Progressive cervical dilation and effacement
5 P’s that affect the process of labor and birth
Passageway (birth canal) Passenger (fetus and placenta) Powers (contractions) Position (maternal) Psychological response
5 P’s that can also affect the labor process
Philosophy (low tech, high touch) Partners (support caregivers) Patience (natural timing) Patient (client) preparation (childbirth knowledge base) Pain management (comfort measures)
true pelvis
the bony passageway through which the fetus must travel
gynecoid pelvis
the true female pelvis, optimal shape
fetal attitude
degree of body flexion
fetal presentation
first body part that enters the pelvic inlet
molding
result of overlapping of the cranial bones
breech
feet or butt first
fetal station
the relationship of the presenting part to the level of the maternal ischial spines
measured in centimeters
fetal engagement
the entrance of the largest diameter of the fetal presenting part (usually head) into the smallest diameter of the maternal pelvis.
engagement
the greatest transverse diameter of the head passes through the pelvic inlet
1st cardinal movement
descent
the downward movement of the fetal head until it is within the pelvic inlet. Occurs with contractions.
Ends with birth.
2nd cardinal movement
flexion
the chin is brought into contact with the fetal thorax
3rd cardinal movement
internal rotation
as the head descends it rotates 45 degrees
4th cardinal movement
extension
resistance from the pelvic floor causes the fetal head to extend so that it can pass under the pubic arch.
anterior fontanel, brow, nose, mouth, chin are born
5th cardinal movement
external rotation (restitution)
the head realigns with the position of the back in the birth canal.
6th cardinal movement