Physiological Labour and Birth

Question 1

Which physiological changes must occur to allow for expulsion of the fetus?

Answer 1

Cervix softens
Myometrial tone changes to allow for coordinated contractions
Progesterone decreases
Oxytocin and prostaglandins increase

Question 2

How many stages of labour are there?

Answer 2

3

Question 3

Briefly describe the first stage of labour.

Answer 3

Can be split into latent phase and active phase:

Latent phase- can be longest part of labour, irregular contractions. Cervical changes, up to 4cm dilated

Active phase- length varies from 8-12hrs
Regular, painful contractions
Cervix is 4-10cm

Question 4

Briefly describe the second stage of labour.

Answer 4

Full dilation to birth
Length varies, 2-3hrs

Question 5

Briefly describe the third stage of labour.

Answer 5

From birth to the expulsion of the placenta and membranes

Question 6

List some of the non-pharmacological options used to help during labour.

Answer 6

Maternal position and mobility
Breathing techniques
Massage
Aromatherapy
TENS
Water

Question 7

List some of the pharmacological options used to help during labour.

Answer 7

Oral analgesia
Entonox
Opioids
Remifetanil PCA
Epidural

Question 8

Would probs be useful to read through the Physiology of Labour and Birth Q&A before exams xx

Answer 8

Go x