Labor and Delivery
Labor refers to a series of rhythmic, progressive contractions of the uterus that help the baby to begin moving towards the birth canal (vagina) and then outside the mother’s body through vagina. This is the last stage of pregnancy after which the mother can see the much awaited baby!
The labor is divided into three stages during which the baby gradually moves from the uterus (where it has reached the complete growth) towards the exit through the birth canal and then outside.
The initial phase which is signified by continuous regular contractions lasts for about 5–12 h, followed by an active second phase for about 2–3 h.
The second phase lasts for about 45–60 min during which the baby can be delivered. The mother may be asked to push the baby out by bearing down during each contraction, until the baby is born. This may require some effort! But all this effort is replaced by joy as the mother hear the baby’s cry!
During the third phase, the tissue that connects the mother to the baby (placenta) is delivered as the uterus begins to contract. This stage lasts from a few minutes to about 20 min.1
Signs of labor
Contractions in the lower abdomen at regular intervals and back pain are generally the first signs of labor.
Other signs that may also be indicative include
- A small discharge of blood mixed with mucus from the vagina (“bloody show”) or
- The occasional rupture of the fluid-filled membranes that contain the fetus (amniotic sac), commonly described as “the water breaks”.
One should notify the doctor immediately when she experiences these signs and should be hospitalized for delivery.1,2
If signs of labor are not observed near the due date as predicted by the doctor it may need to be induced by the administration of certain medications. These medications induce contractions in the uterus thereby facilitating labor.
Normal delivery:
Most women can deliver their babies through the vagina which is commonly referred to as a normal delivery. Medications that may be administered during labor include pain relieving agents (analgesics).2 This helps in reducing the stress felt by the mother during pregnancy. The vagina may at times be needed to cut to a small extent to facilitate easier delivery. This cut is stitched after delivery.3
Cesarean section or the C-section:
Cesarean section or the C-section is the method of delivering the baby by making a cut (incision) through the abdomen and the uterus.
This method of delivery may be advised based on numerous factors such as
- The position of the baby in the uterus
- Opening of the cervix during labor
- Health status of the baby and the mother.2
This is a surgical procedure, which is done under anesthesia. The baby is delivered through the incision made and the uterus will be closed with specialized stitches that will dissolve in the body over a period of time.
The mother may be advised to stay in the hospital for 2–3 days following the C-section procedure. The stitches and the wound in the abdomen require a few weeks to heal during which she should not perform any strenuous works. The doctor will advice about the various precautions and measures to be taken following this procedure.4
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Written by: Healthplus24 team
Date last updated: April 21, 2012