labour

Question 1

What is parturition?

Answer 1

Process by which the foetus is expelled from the mother’s body at the end of gestation

Question 2

What hormonal changes occur before labour?

Answer 2

Pelvic ligaments soften, uterus contracts more strongly

Question 3

What position is the foetus in before labour?

Answer 3

Head in pelvis, knees up, legs crossed

Question 4

What happens in the first stage of labour?

Answer 4

Weak contractions become stronger, cervix dilates to 10cm, lasts 8–9 hrs (1st child), ~4 hrs (later births)

Question 5

What happens in the second stage of labour?

Answer 5

From full dilation to birth; foetus expelled, membranes burst (‘waters break’), lasts 20 min – 2 hrs

Question 6

How does the foetus’ head adapt during birth?

Answer 6

Stretches vagina; skull bones pliable

Question 7

What happens in the third stage of labour?

Answer 7

Baby breathes independently, cord clamped and cut, placenta and membranes expelled

Question 8

Why was childbirth historically risky?

Answer 8

High risk of infection, now reduced with hygiene and antibiotics

Question 9

What is vernix?

Answer 9

Protective waxy layer covering newborn at birth

Question 10

Summary of labour?

Answer 10

Labour progresses through cervical dilation, foetal expulsion, and afterbirth. Baby begins breathing independently and placenta is expelled