LABOUR & DELIVERY

Labour and delivery are the processes by which baby is born, from the mother’s womb. Labour is roughly divided into 3 stages.

 

In the first stage of labour the uterine contractions helps in softening the cervix, shortening or effacing of the cervix and dilation of the cervix. This helps in the birth of the baby.

 

The second stage of labour last from full dilation of cervix to birth of the baby.

 

Third stage of labour is from birth of the baby to delivery of placenta.

 

The duration of the first stage maybe 12-14 hours in primi & about 6-7 hours in a multi gravida.

 

Some women choose medications to relieve pain which helps in labour while others choose natural approaches. Natural pain relief options include patterned breathing (Lamaze’s breathing exercises), acupuncture & massage. Childbirth education classes can help parents for labour and delivery by providing information about normal labour, monitoring equipment and potential complications.