Labor Stages and Mechanisms Flashcards
The series of events by which coordinated uterine contractions expel a fetus and placenta from the uterus.
Labor
he period that begins with the onset of regular uterine contractions and ends with the expulsion of the placenta.
Intrapartum Period
Begins with the onset of true labor contractions and ends with full cervical dilatation.
Dilatation Stage
Regular, progressive, with increasing duration and intensity, and decreasing intervals. The primary sign of true labor.
True Labor Contractions
The opening of the cervix, measured in centimeters, and is the most important sign of labor progress
Cervical Dilatation
Extends from full cervical dilatation until the infant is born.
Delievery Stage
A series of position changes that facilitate the passage of the fetus through the birth canal.
Cardinal Movements of Labor
A mechanism of placental separation where the placenta separates from the center to the edges, resembling an umbrella
Schultze’s Mechanism
A mechanism of placental separation where the placenta separates from the edges first, presenting the maternal side
Duncan’s Mechanism
Begins with the birth of the infant and ends with the delivery of the placenta
Placental Stage
The period of recovery, stabilization, or homeostasis, usually 1 to 4 hours after the birth of the placenta
Recovery Stage
Vaginal discharge after childbirth, containing blood, mucus, and uterine tissue.
Lochia
Contractions of the uterine muscles to help the uterus return to its pre-pregnancy size.
Fundal Contraction
Gentle pressure applied to a contracted uterus to help deliver the placenta.
Crede’s Maneuver
The period following childbirth, often referred to as the postpartum or puerperal period.
Postpartum
