Normal labour

Question 1

Define the first stage of labour

Answer 1

Onset of painful, regular contractions until the cervix is fully effaced and dilated

• passive phase up to 3cm dilation
• active phase 3cm to 10cm dilation

Question 2

Define the second stage of labour

Answer 2

From when the cervix is fully dilated to delivery of the baby

• passive phase; as the head moves down through cervix and vagina
• active phase; mother gets strong urge to push

Question 3

Define the third stage of labour

Answer 3

From delivery of the baby until the placenta and membranes have also been delivered

Question 4

List three types of lie

Answer 4

Longitudinal
Transverse
Oblique

Question 5

List three types of presentation

Answer 5

Cephalic
Breech
Shoulder

Question 6

Why does the foetal head need to rotate during labour?

Answer 6

Due to the shape of the pelvis: upper pelvic straight is transverse, middle pelvic straight is circular, and the lower pelvic straight is antero-posterior

Question 7

Describe the mechanisms of labour

Answer 7

1. Descent
2. Flexion of the head
3. Internal rotation (to occipito-anterior position)
4. Extension of the head
5. Restitution
   6 Delivery of shoulders