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

2. 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.

3. 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.

4. 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.

5. 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

6. 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

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

8. Stages of Labor

9. 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.

10. Apgar Scale Vital Signs 1 2 Activity limp weak active Pulse absent1 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

11. Delivery Presentations

12. 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.

13. Birthing Room at OSU Medical Center