Mechanisms of labour and birth

Question 1

What are the mechanisms of labour?

Answer 1

A series of changes in positions and attitudes that the fetus goes through during labour and birth

Question 2

What are the mechanisms of birth?

Answer 2

Descent
Flexion
Internal rotation
Crowning
Extension
Restitution
Delivery of leading shoulder
Lateral flexion leading to birth

Question 3

What is descent as a mechanism of birth?

Answer 3

The descending of the fetus through the pelvic outlet towards the pelvic floor

Question 4

What is flexion as a mechanism of birth?

Answer 4

As the fetal head comes into contact with the pelvic floor, flexion occurs

Question 5

What is internal rotation as a mechanism of birth?

Answer 5

When the occiput meets the resistance of the pelvic floor muscles, it rotates forward approximately 45 degrees

Question 6

What is crowning and extension as mechanisms of birth?

Answer 6

The occiput escapes under the pubic arch with increased extension and the head is crowned

Question 7

What is restitution as a mechanism of birth?

Answer 7

The head is born, and turns to its original position which is known as restitution

Question 8

What is the delivery of anterior shoulder as a mechanism of birth?

Answer 8

This is the delivery of the shoulder that is furthest from the mother’s spine

Question 9

What must occur straight from birth?

Answer 9

Skin on skin contact