Labor and Delivery Chapter 7 There are definite signs that a woman is about to go into labor: I.Early signs of labor 1. Show or “bloody show” a plug of mucus has closed off the lower part of the uterus in the cervix. This becomes loose and the woman notices a few drops of blood It can be as early as a few days before labor actually begins.

2. “Water Breaks” A trickle or a gush from the vagina— this means that the sack holding the amniotic fluid has broken 3. Contractions The tightening and releasing of the muscle of the uterus

II.Signs of False Labor: 1. They are not regular or rhythmic 2. They do not become increasingly stronger 3. They end if the woman walks around

Stages of Labor Stage 1 When it begins: with the first pain When it ends: when the cervix is fully dilated called transition Length of stage: hours Description: contractions get stronger and longer lasting about 60 seconds and are about 5-6 minutes apart Other info: pain relief can be given

Stage 2 When it begins: when cervix is dilated When it ends: birth of baby Length: few minutes to several hours Description: baby moves through birth canal as mom pushes Other info: may use forceps/ may perform episiotomy

Stage 3 When it begins: after birth When it ends: after placenta, cord, sac delivered Length: few min. to ½ hour Description: mom pushes and afterbirth is delivered

Coping with Labor Relax as much as possible Use special breathing exercises learned in the childbirth classes Change positions –maybe standing or walking will help Choose a pain medication

What is transition? Transition completes the work of the 1 st stage. The cervix becomes fully dilated to a size of 10 cm or approx. 4 inches The baby’s head can now slip out of the uterus and into the birth canal.

Cesarean Section Birth Not all births progress through the 3 stages Sometimes there are complications Cesarean section birth is the delivery of the baby through a surgical incision in the mother’s abdomen. Mother’s are usually awake and the father is usually present

#7 What is Lamaze? Also known as “natural” or “prepared childbirth” Is the oldest and most popular technique of childbirth preparation in the United States 1 in 4 deliveries----or about 1 million births a year is to a woman educated in the Lamaze method. This method became popular in the 1970s It is known for its rhythmic breathing techniques. It helps women turn their attention away from their contractions. The women are taught to turn their attention to a focal point----- something to look at, listen to, or feel; it is about distracting their mind from their pain and concentrating on something else

Types of Pain Relief Narcotics: Nubain and Demerol are commonly used Epidural Anesthesia Local Pudendal Block Spinal Anesthesia General Anesthesia

#8 Refer to “printed sheet” #9. answer yourself