Labour

Question 1

When does labour normally occur

Answer 1

Between 37 and 42 weeks gestation

Question 2

Stages of labour

Answer 2

First stage – from the onset of labour (true contractions) until 10cm cervical dilatation

Second stage – from 10cm cervical dilatation until delivery of the baby

Third stage – from delivery of the baby until delivery of the placenta

Question 3

First Stage

Answer 3

True contraction to 10cm dilated

Involves cervical dilation and effacement (getting thinner).

The “show” falls out and creates a space for the baby to pass through

Question 4

Show

Answer 4

The mucus plug in the cervix, which prevents bacteria from entering the uterus during pregnancy

Question 5

3 stages of labour

Answer 5

Latent phase
Active phase
Transition phase

Question 6

Latent phase of the first stage of labour

Answer 6

From 0 to 3cm dilation of the cervix

Progresses at around 0.5cm per hour

There are irregular contractions

Question 7

Active phase of the first stage of labour

Answer 7

From 3cm to 7cm dilation of the cervix.

This progresses at around 1cm per hour

Regular contractions

Question 8

Transition phase of the first stage of labour

Answer 8

From 3cm to 7cm dilation of the cervix.

This progresses at around 1cm per hour

Regular contractions

Question 9

Braxton-Hicks Contractions

Answer 9

Occasional irregular contractions of the uterus

Usually felt during the second and third trimester

Temporary and irregular tightening or mild cramping in the abdomen.

Not true contractions, and they do not indicate the onset of labour

Question 10

Advice for Braston Hick contractions

Answer 10

Stay hydrated and relaxed

Question 11

How to diagnose the onset of labour

Answer 11

Show (mucus plug from the cervix)
Rupture of membranes
Regular, painful contractions
Dilating cervix on examination

Question 12

Established first stage of labour

Answer 12

Regular, painful contractions

Dilatation of the cervix from 4cm onwards