Labour

Question 1

Stage 1:

a) Latent phase
b) Active phase

Answer 1

• From onset of true labour to when cervix is fully dilated
• lasts 10-16h in primigravida
  a) Latent: 0-3 cm dilation, normally takes 6h.
  b) Active: 3-10 cm dilation, normally 1 cm/h(nulliparous), 2 cm/h(multiparous)

Question 2

Signs of labour:

Answer 2

1. Regular and painful uterine contractions
2. A show(shedding of mucus plug)
3. Rupture of membranes(not always)
4. Shortening and dilation of cervix.

Question 3

Stage 2

Answer 3

• From full dilation to delivery of fetus
• Passive: Absence of pushing
• Active: Active process of maternal pushing
• Usually lasts about 1h
• If >1h, consider Ventouse/forceps/C-section. Can leave for longer if on epidural.
• May require episiotomy

Question 4

Stage 3

Answer 4

• From delivery of fetus to when placenta and membranes have been completely delivered
• Active management: oxytocin IM/syntometrine