Labour And Birth Flashcards
What happens in stage 1 of labour?
- cervix dilates 8-10 cm
- head of the baby engages in the pelvis
- contractions become stronger and can last up to 15 hours
What happens in stage 2 of labour?
- it can last up to an hour
- cervix and vagina form a birth canal
- crowning(when the head can be seen)
- baby’s body will turn
What happens in stage 3 of labour?
- more contractions for placenta
- can last up to an hour
- syntocin can be injected to help speed up the process
- uterus contracts
What is an advantage of pain relief in labour?
Relieves some pain and therefore makes the mother more comfortable
What is a disadvantage of pain relief in labour?
Makes mother feel drowsy so can’t perform labour as well
What are drug free pain reliefs?
- TENS
- breathing and massage
- aroma therapy
- homeopathy
- acupuncture
Other pain reliefs with drugs?
- spinal anaesthetic
- entonox (gas and air)
- pethidine
What are the three main signs of labour?
- waters break
- show
- contractions
What is the name given to the contractions which are referred to as practice contractions?
Braxton Hick contractions
What are the 4 birth positions?
- natural birth
- transverse position
- breech position
- oblique/posteriors position
What are 3 examples of medical assistance during labour?
- caesarean section
- forceps
- induction
Give 3 reasons why medical assistance may be needed during labour
- labour is long
- baby is overdue
- pre-eclampsia
Why do premature babies need special care?
- difficulty breathing
- no sucking reflex
- liver immature
- needs monitoring
What are 2 pieces of specialised equipment in neonatal baby unit?
- incubators
- monitors
What is a difference between baby blues and postnatal depression?
Baby blues is mainly hormonal and postnatal depression is a long term problem that requires medical help.
