Family and Consumer Science Dept. Labor and Delivery Columbian High School Family and Consumer Science Dept. Mrs. Karen Swope

Hospital Procedures Consider pre-registering for admittance a few weeks before due date. Ask doctor about prepping procedures (some require enema, shaving; food or drink may not be allowed once labor begins) The woman may be attached to a fetal monitor.

Signs of Labor Vary from woman to woman; pregnancy to pregnancy First sign labor is approaching is called LIGHTENING - fetus descends down into the pelvic cavity, breathing becomes easier. This may occur anytime during the last month.

Signs of Labor Regular contractions of the uterus Passage of small amount of blood - tinged mucus. (“show”) Amnio-chorionic membrane may rupture, amniotic fluid leaks out (“water breaks”) Labor pains start out as slight twinges and build in intensity.

Stage One of Labor: Dilation Contractions cause cervix to dilate and efface Begins with 1st contraction, ends with cervix dilated to 10 cm (5 inches) May take 6-18 hours Amniotic sac usually ruptures during this stage

Stage Two of Labor: Expulsion(Delivery) Baby’s head is in the birth canal Crowning - top of baby’s head can be seen An episiotomy may be done to ease the birth process Usually lasts 5-45 minutes Ends when baby is born

Stage Three of Labor: Afterbirth Placenta is delivered and examined Lasts 10-15 minutes Episiotomy is repaired Apgar scoring system is done on the baby

Stages of Labor

Apgar Scoring System A simple, easy-to-perform, standardized scale that is used to determine the physical status of an infant at birth. The Apgar scale is administered to a newborn at one minute after birth and five minutes after birth. It scores the baby's heart rate, respiration, muscle tone, reflex response, and color. This test quickly alerts medical personnel that the newborn needs assistance.

Apgar Scale Vital Signs 1 2 Activity limp weak active Pulse absent 1 2 Activity limp weak active Pulse absent < 100/min >100/min Grimace some motion good Appearance blue bodypink, arms, legs blue overall good color Respiration slow

Delivery Presentations

Techniques Used to Aid Delivery Internal and External fetal monitoring Episiotomy Forceps - blunt, curved blades fit around the baby’s head to help guide the baby out Vacuum extraction - suction cup is attached to baby’s head to help guide baby out. Cesarean section - surgical procedure to deliver baby through abdomen.

Birthing Room at OSU Medical Center