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90-471: Labor (or labour ) pains may refer to: Pain experienced during the process of childbirth Labor Pains (film) , a 2009 American romantic comedy film "Labor Pains" ( The Simpsons ) , an episode of the American animated television series The Simpsons "Labor Pains" ( Medium ) , an episode of the American television series Medium Topics referred to by

180-426: A cesarean section is the safest delivery method. The WHO recommends a C-section rate of between 10 and 15% because C-sections rates higher than 10% are not associated with a decrease in morbidity and mortality. In 2018, a group of medical professionals called the rates of increase around the world "alarming". In a Lancet report, C-sections were found to have more than tripled from about 6% of all births to 21%. In

270-449: A delivery team which includes a support person who will advocate to assure that: It has long been known that a mother's level of the hormone oxytocin elevates in a mother when she interacts with her infant. In 2019, a large review of the effects of oxytocin found that the oxytocin level in fathers that engage in SSC is increased as well. Two studies found that "when the infant is clothed only in

360-480: A diaper and placed in between the mother or father's breasts, chest-to-chest [elevated paternal oxytocin levels were] shown to reduce stress and anxiety in parents after interaction." For births that occur in hospitals the WHO recommends a hospital stay of at least 24 hours following an uncomplicated vaginal delivery and 96 hours for a Cesarean section. Looking at length of stay (in 2016) for an uncomplicated delivery around

450-401: A fluid-filled sac. Usually the sac ruptures at the beginning of or during labour. It may cause a gush of fluid or leak in an intermittent or constant flow of small amounts from a woman's vagina. The fluid is clear or pale yellow. If the amniotic sac has not yet broken during labour the health care provider may break it in a technique called an amniotomy . In an amniotomy a thin plastic hook

540-455: A medication to delay delivery. There is currently no definitive scientific explanation for why labour is painful. According to studies, during pregnancy, the myometrium (the muscle part of the uterus) is greatly denervated. Stretch receptors in the uterus disappear during pregnancy, and stretch receptors in the cervix disappear at the onset of labour. Consequently, the reason for labour pain has only been theorised, not ascertained. One theory

630-530: A scheduled cesarean section must be planned for a successful delivery and recovery of the mother. An emergency cesarean section may be recommended if unexpected complications occur or little to no progression through the birthing canal is observed in a vaginal delivery. Each year, complications from pregnancy and childbirth result in about 500,000 birthing deaths , seven million women have serious long-term problems, and 50 million women giving birth have negative health outcomes following delivery, most of which occur in

720-478: A sense of ease. A technique growing in popularity is flotation therapy , which is the use of a float tank in which a solution of Epsom salt is kept at skin temperature to provide effortless floating. Research in USA and Sweden has demonstrated a powerful and profound relaxation after twenty minutes. In some cases, floating may reduce pain and stress and has been shown to release endorphins . Even actions as simple as

810-450: A slower respiratory rate, reduced blood pressure, and a slower heart rate. The main techniques are progressive muscle relaxation , autogenic training , guided imagery , and biofeedback -assisted relaxation. Progressive muscle relaxation (PMR) is one of the most important and easy-to-learn relaxation techniques developed by Dr. Edmund Jacobson in the 1920s, setting the foundation for the development of relaxation techniques. It involves

900-528: A state of increased relaxation. Examples include massage , acupuncture , the Feldenkrais Method , myotherapy , reflexology and self-regulation . Some relaxation methods can also be used during other activities, for example, autosuggestion and prayer . At least one study has suggested that listening to certain types of music, particularly new-age music and classical music , can increase feelings associated with relaxation, such as peacefulness and

990-520: A statement by the maternal and child health organisation, the March of Dimes , the increase is largely due to an increase of elective C-sections rather than when it is really necessary or indicated. Looking at the C-section rates between 1976 and 1996, one large study done in the U.S. found that the proportion of pregnancies delivered by C section increased from 6.7% in 1976 to 14.2% in 1996, with maternal choice

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1080-406: A walk in the park have been shown to aid feelings of relaxation, regardless of the initial reason for the visit. A new relaxation technique course, developed specifically for medical students in universities, was found to be effective in reducing anxiety, burnout, and depression, leading to significant improvements in academic performance and evaluated parameters. Introducing this particular course

1170-501: Is a technique of newborn care where babies are kept chest-to-chest and skin-to-skin with a parent, typically their mother or possibly the father. This means without the shirt or undergarments on the chest of both the baby and parent. A 2011 medical review found that early skin-to-skin contact resulted in a decrease in infant crying, improved cardio-respiratory stability and blood glucose levels, and improved breastfeeding duration. A 2016 Cochrane review also found that SSC at birth promotes

1260-733: Is a technique that enables individuals to make subtle changes in their body, such as the relaxation of muscles, which can help alleviate pain and decrease tension. With the aid of an electronic device that provides feedback and real-time information on changes in heart rate, blood pressure, or muscle tension, individuals can learn to monitor their level of relaxation and recognize and regulate their body's response to stress. Biofeedback-related relaxation techniques are found by researchers to decrease test anxiety in nursing students, significantly reduce average blood glucose, A1C , muscle tension, and lower hypertension . Various techniques are used by individuals to improve their state of relaxation. Some of

1350-459: Is a well-established technique for reducing stress and anxiety. It involves replacing distressing memories with positive mental imagery through a process of sensory engagement and behavioral and physiological responses. The technique is guided by an instructor or audio recording that directs participants to imagine a peaceful or pleasant setting, often involving rich sensory experiences such as sounds, smells, and visual details. By actively engaging

1440-558: Is about to begin may include what is known as lightening , which is the process of the baby moving down from the rib cage with the head of the baby engaging deep in the pelvis. The pregnant woman may then find breathing easier, since her lungs have more room for expansion, but pressure on her bladder may cause more frequent need to void (urinate). Lightening may occur a few weeks or a few hours before labour begins, or even not until labour has begun. Some women also experience an increase in vaginal discharge several days before labour begins when

1530-443: Is achieved through labour induction or caesarean section , also called a C-section. Labour induction is the process or treatment that stimulates childbirth and delivery. Inducing labour can be accomplished with pharmaceutical or non-pharmaceutical methods. Inductions are most often performed either with prostaglandin drug treatment alone, or with a combination of prostaglandin and intravenous oxytocin treatment. Caesarean section

1620-413: Is advised that the newborn be placed skin-to-skin with the mother following vaginal birth, or as soon as the mother is alert and responsive after a Caesarean section, postponing any routine procedures for at least one to two hours. The baby's father or other support person may also choose to hold the baby SSC until the mother recovers from the anaesthetic. The WHO suggests that any initial observations of

1710-488: Is also considered for logistical reasons, such as the distance from hospital or psychosocial conditions, but in these instances gestational age confirmation must be done, and the maturity of the fetal lung must be confirmed by testing. The ACOG also note that contraindications for induced labour are the same as for spontaneous vaginal delivery, including vasa previa , complete placenta praevia , umbilical cord prolapse or active genital herpes simplex infection, in which cases

1800-426: Is an empty stomach or that its contents are not as acidic. They therefore conclude that "women should be free to eat and drink in labour, or not, as they wish." At one time shaving of the area around the vagina , was common practice due to the belief that hair removal reduced the risk of infection, made an episiotomy (a surgical cut to enlarge the vaginal entrance) easier, and helped with instrumental deliveries. It

1890-409: Is critical for life and well-being. Additionally, chronic stressors can have negative consequences, and they are especially prevalent in humans, potentially due to their high cognitive ability, which may cause ongoing stress responses to various adverse life and work circumstances. The connection between psychosocial stressors and chronic illness is intricate and influenced by various factors, such as

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1980-436: Is currently less common, though it is still a routine procedure in some countries even though a systematic review found no evidence to recommend shaving. Side effects appear later, including irritation, redness, and multiple superficial scratches from the razor. Another effort to prevent infection has been the use of the antiseptic chlorhexidine or providone-iodine solution in the vagina. Evidence of benefit with chlorhexidine

2070-585: Is different from Wikidata All article disambiguation pages All disambiguation pages Childbirth Childbirth , also known as labour , parturition and delivery , is the completion of pregnancy where one or more babies exits the internal environment of the mother via vaginal delivery or caesarean section . In 2019, there were about 140.11 million human births globally. In developed countries , most deliveries occur in hospitals , while in developing countries most are home births . The most common childbirth method worldwide

2160-460: Is difficult labour or abnormally slow progress of labour, involving progressive cervical dilatation or lack of descent of the fetus. Friedman's Curve, developed in 1955, was for many years used to determine labour dystocia. However, more recent medical research suggests that the Friedman curve may not be currently applicable. The expulsion stage begins when the cervix is fully dilated, and ends when

2250-433: Is expelled until just after the placenta is expelled is called the third stage of labour or the involution stage . Placental expulsion begins as a physiological separation from the wall of the uterus. The average time from delivery of the baby until complete expulsion of the placenta is estimated to be 10–12 minutes dependent on whether active or expectant management is employed. In as many as 3% of all vaginal deliveries,

2340-482: Is generally recommended as a first option. Cesarean section can lead to increased risk of complications and a significantly slower recovery. There are also many natural benefits of a vaginal delivery in both mother and baby. Various methods may help with pain, such as relaxation techniques , opioids , and spinal blocks . It is best practice to limit the amount of interventions that occur during labour and delivery such as an elective cesarean section, however in some cases

2430-815: Is important because the prevalence of stress-related mental disorders in medical students is significantly higher than in the general public. Relaxation techniques are generally deemed safe for healthy individuals, with most research studies reporting no adverse side effects. However, there have been occasional instances where individuals have reported negative experiences such as heightened anxiety, intrusive thoughts , or fear of losing control. In particular, some relaxation techniques may not be suitable for individuals with certain medical or psychiatric conditions. In rare cases, these techniques may even exacerbate existing symptoms. For instance, there have been reports that certain relaxation methods can trigger or worsen symptoms in individuals with epilepsy, psychiatric disorders, or

2520-453: Is known to evoke feelings of contentment, reductions in anxiety, and feelings of calmness and security around the mate. Oxytocin is further released during labour when the fetus stimulates the cervix and vagina, and it is believed that it plays a major role in the bonding of a mother to her infant and in the establishment of maternal behaviour. Studies show that the father of the child also has an increase in oxytocin levels following contact with

2610-561: Is lacking. A decreased risk is found with providone-iodine when a cesarean section is to be performed. An assisted delivery is used in about 1 in 8 births, and may be needed if either mother or infant appears to be at risk during a vaginal delivery. The methods used are termed obstetrical forceps extraction and vacuum extraction , also called ventouse extraction. Done properly, they are both safe with some preference for forceps rather than vacuum, and both are seen as preferable to an unexpected C-section. While considered safe, some risks for

2700-925: Is not unusual after childbirth but it is more common after an instrument delivery. Certain exercises and physiotherapy will help the condition to improve. Relaxation techniques Relaxation therapy, the application of relaxation techniques, can be applied in various settings to complement treatment for stress, anxiety, depression, and pain. It addresses both psychological and physiological effects of stress such as increased heart rate, sweating, and muscle tension. There are many variations of relaxation techniques, including progressive muscle relaxation , autogenic training , guided imagery , biofeedback -assisted relaxation, and other techniques. Thus, relaxation techniques are useful for either emotional pain caused by stress, anger, anxiety, and mood of depression, or chronic pain caused by strains, single-side muscle use, awkward position, restriction of movement in certain areas of

2790-512: Is recommended to repeat the process several times and to practice regularly to induce physical muscular relaxation at the first signs of stress. After the initial practice of PMR, several muscle groups may still require additional tensing and relaxation to achieve maximum effects. Decreasing the degree of muscle tension is typically recommended by Dr. Edmund to “train” the body for immediate and continuous response. The following steps are recommended to perform effective PMR. Guided imagery (GI)

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2880-436: Is referred to as "delivery en caul ". Complete expulsion of the baby signals the successful completion of the second stage of labour. Some babies, especially preterm infants, are born covered with a waxy or cheese-like white substance called vernix . It is thought to have some protective roles during fetal development and for a few hours after birth. The second stage varies from one woman to another. In first labours, birth

2970-428: Is some other indication, mothers can attempt a trial of labour and most are able to have a vaginal birth after C-section (VBAC). Induced births and elective cesarean before 39 weeks can be harmful to the neonate as well as harmful or without benefit to the mother. Therefore, many guidelines recommend against non-medically required induced births and elective cesarean before 39 weeks. The 2012 rate of labour induction in

3060-407: Is that the pain results from the buildup of chemicals released during physical exertion. The second leading theory is that the pain results from the vasoconstriction of uterine blood vessels in the myometrium; each contraction squeezes the blood vessels, reducing blood flow and causing some hypoxia . During the later stages of gestation, there is an increase in abundance of oxytocin , a hormone that

3150-519: Is the removal of the neonate through a surgical incision in the abdomen, rather than through vaginal birth. During the procedure the patient is usually numbed with an epidural or a spinal block, but general anaesthesia can be used as well. A cut is made in the patient's abdomen and then in the uterus to remove the baby. Before the 1970s, once a patient delivered one baby via C-section, it was recommended that all of her future babies be delivered by C-section, but that recommendation has changed. Unless there

3240-416: Is used to make a small opening in the sac, causing the water to break. If the sac breaks before labour starts, it's called a prelabour rupture of membranes . Contractions will typically start within 24 hours after the water breaks. If not, the care provider will generally begin labour induction within 24 to 48 hours. If the baby is preterm (less than 37 weeks of pregnancy), the healthcare provider may use

3330-404: Is usually completed within three hours whereas in subsequent labours, birth is usually completed within two hours. Second-stage labours longer than three hours are associated with declining rates of spontaneous vaginal delivery and increasing rates of infection, perineal tears , and obstetric haemorrhage, as well as the need for intensive care of the neonate. The period from just after the fetus

3420-410: Is vaginal delivery. It involves four stages of labour : the shortening and opening of the cervix during the first stage, descent and birth of the baby during the second, the delivery of the placenta during the third, and the recovery of the mother and infant during the fourth stage, which is referred to as the postpartum . The first stage is characterised by abdominal cramping or also back pain in

3510-401: The cervix , and cervical dilation occur during the closing weeks of pregnancy . Effacement is usually complete or near-complete and dilation is about 5 cm by the end of the latent phase. The degree of cervical effacement and dilation may be felt during a vaginal examination. The active phase of labour has geographically differing definitions. The World Health Organization describes

3600-771: The developing world . Complications in the mother include obstructed labour , postpartum bleeding , eclampsia , and postpartum infection . Complications in the baby include lack of oxygen at birth (birth asphyxia), birth trauma , and prematurity . The most prominent sign of labour is strong repetitive uterine contractions . Pain in contractions has been described as feeling similar to very strong menstrual cramps . Crowning may be experienced as an intense stretching and burning. The Lamaze method of childbirth teaches that making noises such as moaning, groaning, grunting, repeating words over and over, and any sound that one's body may wish to naturally make may help to relieve pain and help labour to progress. According to Lamaze, "While

3690-494: The shortening and opening of the cervix during the first stage, descent and birth of the baby during the second, the delivery of the placenta during the third, and the 4th stage of recovery which lasts until two hours after the delivery. The first stage is characterised by abdominal cramping or back pain that typically lasts around half a minute and occurs every 10 to 30 minutes. The contractions (and pain) gradually becomes stronger and closer together. The second stage ends when

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3780-584: The umbilical cord for at least one minute or until it ceases to pulsate, which may take several minutes, improves outcomes as long as there is the ability to treat jaundice if it occurs. For many years it was believed that late cord cutting led to a mother's risk of experiencing significant bleeding after giving birth, called postpartum bleeding . However a recent review found that delayed cord cutting in healthy full-term infants resulted in early haemoglobin concentration and higher birthweight and increased iron reserves up to six months after birth with no change in

3870-411: The vaginal opening . This is assisted by the additional maternal efforts of pushing, or bearing down, similar to defecation . The appearance of the fetal head at the vaginal opening is termed crowning . At this point, the mother will feel an intense burning or stinging sensation. When the amniotic sac has not ruptured during labour or pushing, the infant can be born with the membranes intact. This

3960-435: The "mucus plug", a thick plug of mucus that blocks the opening to the uterus, is pushed out into the vagina. The mucus plug may become dislodged days before labour begins or not until the start of labour. While inside the uterus the baby is enclosed in a fluid-filled membrane called the amniotic sac . Shortly before, at the beginning of, or during labour the sac ruptures . Once the sac ruptures, termed "the water breaks",

4050-455: The 1980s indicated stronger ties between stress and health and showed benefits from a wider range of relaxation techniques than had been previously known. This research received national media attention, including a New York Times article in 1986. A more recent study found that participants who practiced progressive muscle relaxation, deep breathing, and guided imagery experienced a statistically significant increase in relaxation compared to

4140-620: The PMR-GI approach is a highly effective method for managing the symptoms of nausea and vomiting, as well as improving patients' overall mental well-being. Studies have identified several connections between exposure to natural environments and health outcomes. Specifically, there is compelling evidence linking nature exposure to enhancements in cognitive function, brain activity, blood pressure, mental health, physical activity, and sleep. However, it may not always be feasible to alleviate anxiety symptoms by spending time in natural settings, depending on

4230-538: The United States was 23.3%, and had more than doubled from 1990 to 2010. By 2022 it had climbed to 32%. The American Congress of Obstetricians and Gynecologists (ACOG) guidelines recommend a full evaluation of the maternal-fetal status, the status of the cervix, and at least a 39 completed weeks (full term) of gestation for optimal health of the newborn when considering elective induction of labour. Per these guidelines, indications for induction may include: Induction

4320-549: The active first stage as "a period of time characterised by regular painful uterine contractions, a substantial degree of cervical effacement and more rapid cervical dilatation from 5 cm until full dilatation for first and subsequent labours”. In the US, the definition of active labour was changed from 3 to 4 cm, to 5 cm of cervical dilation for multiparous women, mothers who had given birth previously, and at 6 cm for nulliparous women, those who had not given birth before. This

4410-405: The baby is at risk for infection and the mother's medical team will assess the need to induce labour if it has not started within the time they believe to be safe for the infant. The first stage of labour is divided into latent and active phases, where the latent phase is sometimes included in the definition of labour, and sometimes not. The latent phase is generally defined as beginning at

4500-401: The baby is born. As pressure on the cervix increases, a sensation of pelvic pressure is experienced, and, with it, an urge to begin pushing. At the beginning of the normal second stage, the head is fully engaged in the pelvis; the widest diameter of the head has passed below the level of the pelvic inlet . The fetal head then continues descent into the pelvis, below the pubic arch and out through

4590-405: The birth canal. This change in the shape of the fetal head is called molding and is much more prominent in women having their first vaginal delivery. Cervical ripening is the physical and chemical changes in the cervix to prepare it for the stretching that will take place as the fetus moves out of the uterus and into the birth canal. A scoring system called a Bishop score can be used to judge

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4680-429: The case of back labour, that typically lasts half a minute and occurs every 10 to 30 minutes. Contractions gradually become stronger and closer together. Since the pain of childbirth correlates with contractions, the pain becomes more frequent and strong as the labour progresses. The second stage ends when the infant is fully expelled. The third stage is the delivery of the placenta . The fourth stage of labour involves

4770-538: The control group. While there was no significant difference in relaxation levels before training, all intervention groups demonstrated significantly higher levels of relaxation after training compared to the control group. Additionally, there was a linear association between progressive muscle relaxation & guided imagery and physiological relaxation, while the deep breathing group initially showed increased physiological arousal before quickly returning to baseline levels. These findings support existing research findings on

4860-444: The degree of cervical ripening to predict the timing of labour and delivery of the infant or for women at risk for preterm labour. It is also used to judge when a woman will respond to induction of labour for a postdate pregnancy or other medical reasons. There are several methods of inducing cervical ripening which will allow the uterine contractions to effectively dilate the cervix. Vaginal delivery involves four stages of labour:

4950-428: The duration of the third stage is longer than 30 minutes and raises concern for retained placenta . Placental expulsion can be managed actively or it can be managed expectantly, allowing the placenta to be expelled without medical assistance. Active management is the administration of a uterotonic drug within one minute of fetal delivery, controlled traction of the umbilical cord and fundal massage after delivery of

5040-405: The effective and repetitive relaxation of 14 different muscle groups and has been used to treat anxiety, tension headaches, migraines, TMJ, neck pain, insomnia, bipolar disorder, anxiety, backaches, high blood pressure, etc. PMR is a two-step practice that involves creating tension in specific muscle groups and then releasing it to build awareness of the sensations of tension and deep relaxation. It

5130-410: The effectiveness of relaxation techniques, which can effectively enhance relaxation states both psychologically and physiologically. People use relaxation techniques for the following reasons, among others: Thus, relaxation techniques are used and designed to help individuals reduce tension and anxiety, both physically and psychologically, by inducing the body's "relaxation response," characterized by

5220-625: The hospital shortly after birth and her midwife will continue her care at her home. In the U.S. the average length of stay has gradually dropped from 4.1 days in 1970 to a current stay of 2 days. The CDC attributed the drop to the rise in health care costs, saying people could not afford to stay in the hospital any longer. To keep it from dropping any lower, in 1996 congress passed the Newborns' and Mothers' Health Protection Act that requires insurers to cover at least 48 hours for uncomplicated delivery. In many cases and with increasing frequency, childbirth

5310-409: The infant and parents with higher oxytocin levels showed more responsiveness and synchrony in their interactions with their infant. The act of nursing a child also causes a release of oxytocin to help the baby get milk more easily from the nipple. Station refers to the relationship of the fetal presenting part to the level of the ischial spines . When the presenting part is at the ischial spines

5400-409: The infant be placed on the mother's chest, termed skin-to-skin contact , and delaying routine procedures for at least one to two hours or until the baby has had its first breastfeeding. Definitions of the onset of labour include: Many women are known to experience what has been termed the "nesting instinct". Women report a spurt of energy shortly before going into labour. Common signs that labour

5490-399: The infant can be done while the infant remains close to the mother, saying that even a brief separation before the baby has had its first feed can disturb the bonding process. They further advise frequent skin-to-skin contact as much as possible during the first days after delivery, especially if it were interrupted for some reason after the delivery. La Leche League advises women to have

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5580-408: The infant is fully expelled. In the third stage, the delivery of the placenta. The fourth stage of labour involves recovery, the uterus beginning to contract to pre-pregnancy state, delayed clamping of the umbilical cord , and monitoring of the neonatal tone and vitals. As of 2014, all major health organisations advise that immediately following a live birth , regardless of the delivery method, that

5670-429: The latent first stage has not been established and can vary widely from one woman to another. However, the duration of active first stage (from 5 cm until full cervical dilatation) usually does not extend beyond 12 hours in the first labour("primiparae"), and usually does not extend beyond 10 hours in subsequent labours ("multiparae"). Dystocia of labour , also called "dysfunctional labour" or "failure to progress",

5760-457: The likelihood and effectiveness of breastfeeding. As of 2014, early postpartum SSC is endorsed by all major organisations that are responsible for the well-being of infants, including the American Academy of Pediatrics . The World Health Organization (WHO) states that "the process of childbirth is not finished until the baby has safely transferred from placental to mammary nutrition." It

5850-415: The lower segment of the uterus. During a contraction, uterine muscles contract causing shortening of the upper segment and drawing upwards of the lower segment, in a gradual expulsive motion. The presenting fetal part then is permitted to descend. Full dilation is reached when the cervix has widened enough to allow passage of the baby's head, around 10 cm dilation for a term baby. A standard duration of

5940-401: The media would have you believe that all birthing women scream, in reality, it's not the most common noise." They say that screaming may be a sign that the labouring woman is beginning to panic and the support team should help her back to regulated breathing. Back labour is a complication that occurs during childbirth when a fetus exhibits posterior presentation (i.e. when the fetus is facing

6030-598: The methods are performed alone; some require the help of another person (often a trained professional); some involve movement, some focus on stillness; while other methods involve different elements. Certain relaxation techniques known as "formal and passive relaxation exercises" are generally performed while sitting or lying quietly, with minimal movement, and involve "a degree of withdrawal". These include: Movement-based relaxation methods incorporate exercises such as walking , gardening , yoga , tai chi , qigong , and more. Some forms of bodywork are helpful in promoting

6120-444: The most frequent reason given. By 2018 the rate had climbed to one-third of all births. Obstetric care frequently subjects women to institutional routines, which may have adverse effects on the progress of labour. Supportive care during labour may involve emotional support, comfort measures, and information and advocacy which may promote the physical process of labour as well as women's feelings of control and competence, thus reducing

6210-491: The mother include vaginal tearing, including a higher chance of having a more major vaginal tear that involves the muscle or wall of the anus or rectum. For women undergoing operative vaginal delivery with vacuum extraction or forceps, there is strong evidence that prophylactic antibiotics help to reduce the risk of infection. There is a higher risk of blood clots forming in the legs or pelvis – anti-clot stockings or medication may be ordered to avoid clots. Urinary incontinence

6300-399: The mother's navel), instead of the typical anterior presentation. This leads to more intense contractions, and causes pain in the lower back that persists between contractions as the fetus’ occiput exerts pressure on the mother's sacrum. Another prominent sign of labour is the rupture of membranes , commonly known as "water breaking". During pregnancy, a baby is surrounded and cushioned by

6390-738: The need for obstetric intervention. The continuous support may be provided either by hospital staff such as nurses or midwives, doulas , or by companions of the woman's choice from her social network. There is increasing evidence to show that the participation of the child's father in the birth leads to a better birth and also post-birth outcomes, providing the father does not exhibit excessive anxiety. Continuous labour support may help women to give birth spontaneously, that is, without caesarean or vacuum or forceps, with slightly shorter labours, and to have more positive feelings regarding their experience of giving birth. Continuous labour support may also reduce women's use of pain medication during labour and reduce

6480-440: The nursery and that the separation would offer the mothers more time to rest. As attitudes began to change, some hospitals offered a "rooming in" option wherein after a period of routine hospital procedures and observation, the infant could be allowed to share the mother's room. As of 2020, rooming-in has increasingly become standard practice in maternity wards. Skin-to-skin contact (SSC), sometimes also called kangaroo care ,

6570-412: The oesophagus in pregnancy, upward pressure of the uterus on the stomach, and the possibility of general anaesthetic in the event of an emergency cesarean. A 2013 Cochrane review found that with good obstetrical anaesthesia there is no change in harms from allowing eating and drinking during labour in those who are unlikely to need surgery. They additionally acknowledge that not eating does not mean there

6660-544: The placenta, followed by performance of uterine massage every 15 minutes for two hours. In a joint statement, World Health Organization , the International Federation of Gynaecology and Obstetrics and the International Confederation of Midwives recommend active management of the third stage of labour in all vaginal deliveries to help to prevent postpartum haemorrhage . Delaying the clamping of

6750-428: The point at which the woman perceives regular uterine contractions . In contrast, Braxton Hicks contractions , which are contractions that may start around 26 weeks gestation and are sometimes called "false labour", are infrequent, irregular, and involve only mild cramping. Braxton Hicks contractions are the uterine muscles preparing to deliver the infant. Cervical effacement , which is the thinning and stretching of

6840-484: The postnatal period as the most critical and yet the most neglected phase in the lives of mothers and babies; most deaths occur during the postnatal period. Following the birth, if the mother had an episiotomy or a tearing of the perineum , it is stitched. This is also an optimal time for uptake of long-acting reversible contraception (LARC), such as the contraceptive implant or intrauterine device (IUD), both of which can be inserted immediately after delivery while

6930-423: The rate of postpartum bleeding. The fourth stage of labour is the period beginning immediately after childbirth, and extends for about six weeks. The terms postpartum and postnatal are often used for this period. The woman's body, including hormone levels and uterus size, return to a non-pregnant state and the newborn adjusts to life outside the mother's body. The World Health Organization (WHO) describes

7020-451: The recovery of the mother, delayed clamping of the umbilical cord , and monitoring of the neonate . As of 2014, all major health organisations advise that immediately following a live birth , regardless of the delivery method, that the infant be placed on the mother's chest (termed skin-to-skin contact ), and to delay neonate procedures for at least one to two hours or until the baby has had its first breastfeeding . Vaginal delivery

7110-490: The relationship between physical and mental disorders through various methods and investigated the effects of relaxation techniques. The subsequent literature review presents a brief and succinct overview of the latest research discoveries, providing a background for the understanding of relaxation techniques. Claude Bernard, a scientist in 1865, observed that maintaining a constant internal environment, our internal milieu, when facing changes in external environment and conditions

7200-401: The risk of babies having low five-minute Apgar scores. Eating or drinking during labour is an area of ongoing debate. While some have argued that eating in labour has no harmful effects on outcomes, others continue to have concern regarding the increased possibility of an aspiration event (choking on recently eaten foods) in the event of an emergency delivery due to the increased relaxation of

7290-419: The same term [REDACTED] This disambiguation page lists articles associated with the title Labor Pains . If an internal link led you here, you may wish to change the link to point directly to the intended article. Retrieved from " https://en.wikipedia.org/w/index.php?title=Labor_Pains&oldid=1173144819 " Category : Disambiguation pages Hidden categories: Short description

7380-408: The senses and focusing on specific contextual details, guided imagery enables individuals to generate vivid and realistic mental images that create a strong sense of presence and immersion in the imagined scenario, which helps to divert attention away from negative thoughts and feelings, and fosters a sense of relaxation and tranquility. When used in combination with progressive muscle relaxation (PMR),

7470-451: The situation and context. Studies have demonstrated that incorporating nature-based GI interventions can overcome the barriers of limited access to natural environments and enhance the effectiveness of GI interventions. Nature-based GI techniques have been shown to be highly effective in managing anxiety, while also offering the advantages of being affordable and highly accessible, providing a great alternative to traditional GI. Biofeedback

7560-432: The spine, improper form during physical activity, and stressful posture. Multiple relaxation techniques share a fundamental principle to decrease muscle tension and lower physical or mental pain. Relaxation techniques are generally safe for healthy individuals. Occasional instances exist where individuals have reported negative experiences after receiving relaxation techniques. Current and past researchers have explored

7650-481: The station is 0 (synonymous with engagement). If the presenting fetal part is above the spines, the distance is measured and described as minus stations, which range from −1 to −4  cm . If the presenting part is below the ischial spines, the distance is stated as plus stations ( +1 to +4 cm). At +3 and +4 the presenting part is at the perineum and can be seen. The fetal head may temporarily change shape (becoming more elongated or cone shaped) as it moves through

7740-523: The type, quantity, and duration of stressors, along with an individual's biological susceptibility (like genetics and inherent characteristics) and their learned ways of coping. Previous studies have indicated that relaxation techniques, including but not limited to deep breathing, guided imagery, meditation, and progressive muscle relaxation, are effective ways to reduce stress, indicating that relaxation techniques are effective in promoting relaxation both physically and psychologically. Research released in

7830-451: The uterus to prevent excessive blood flow, continue for several days. Vaginal discharge, termed "lochia", can be expected to continue for several weeks; initially bright red, it gradually becomes pink, changing to brown, and finally to yellow or white. At one time babies born in hospitals were removed from their mothers shortly after birth and brought to the mother only at feeding times. Mothers were told that their newborns would be safer in

7920-463: The woman is still in the delivery room. The mother has regular assessments for uterine contraction and fundal height , vaginal bleeding, heart rate and blood pressure, and temperature, for the first 24 hours after birth. Some women may experience an uncontrolled episode of shivering or postpartum chills following the birth. The first passing of urine should be documented within six hours. Afterpains (pains similar to menstrual cramps), contractions of

8010-522: The world shows an average of less than 1 day in Egypt to 6 days in (pre-war) Ukraine. Averages for Australia are 2.8 days and 1.5 days in the UK. While this number is low, two-thirds of women in the UK have midwife-assisted births and in some cases the mother may choose a hospital setting for birth to be closer to the wide range of assistance available for an emergency situation. However, women with midwife care may leave

8100-464: Was done in an effort to increase the rates of vaginal delivery. Health care providers may assess the mother's progress in labour by performing a cervical exam to evaluate the cervical dilation, effacement, and station. These factors form the Bishop score . The Bishop score can also be used as a means to predict the success of an induction of labour . During effacement, the cervix becomes incorporated into

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