Chapter 3

Labor and Birth

• Uterine contractions initially occur when the mother's body prepares for labor, usually around the 37th week of gestation.
• The period of transition, which is the most intense part of labor, occurs when contractions reach their greatest intensity.
• Oxytocin is released during labor when the baby's head presses against the cervix and stimulates the release of this hormone.

Stages of Labor

• During the second stage of labor, the baby's head moves through the birth canal.
• The third stage of labor is when the placenta is expelled from the uterus.

Episiotomy and Interventions

• An episiotomy is a surgical incision to widen the vaginal opening during labor, allowing for a smoother and less traumatic delivery.

Birth Attendants and Settings

• In North America, around 99% of births are attended by skilled health personnel.
• In the least developed countries, only around 45% of births have skilled health personnel in attendance.
• The primary attendants for childbirth are obstetricians and midwives.
• Water birthing takes place in a birthing pool or tub.

Apgar Scale

• The Apgar scale assesses five qualities: heart rate, respiration, muscle tone, reflexes, and color.
• The scoring range for each quality is 0-2.
• The purpose of the Apgar scale is to quickly evaluate the new baby's overall health and well-being.

Birthing Methods

• Hypnobreathing is a birthing method that involves self-hypnosis.
• The Bradley method emphasizes natural, 'partner-coached' childbirth.
• Doulas play a primary role in supporting the mother during childbirth.

Statistics

• Around 1% of babies in the United States are delivered by midwives.
• The exact moment of birth is marked by the complete delivery of the baby.
• The recommended way to deal with labor is to stay relaxed and focused.

Miscellaneous

• Anoxia is defined as a lack of oxygen.