Childbirth phases

• Pregnancy lasts about 40 weeks
• During this time the baby fully develops and is ready to be born.
• Childbirth begins when the mother experiences intensified labor and/or the amniotic sac bursts, releasing amniotic fluid.
• Labor pains are contractions of the uterus associated with pain.
• Childbirth occurs in three phases

Opening Phase

• This phase usually lasts the longest.
• The fully closed cervix must open to about 10 cm.
• This enables the baby's head to pass through.
• The head is the largest part of the baby's body.
• The mother cannot assist during this phase.
• The mother must remain calm and try to relax.

Expulsion Phase

• This phase begins when the cervix is open enough.
• The mother starts to push the baby through the vagina.
• The mother now experiences pushing contractions
• If the amniotic sac has not burst, it will burst now and the amniotic fluid will be released.
• Babies usually come into the world head first.
• Once the baby reaches the vaginal opening, the doctor or midwife helps by supporting the head first and then the entire baby

Afterbirth Phase

• After the baby is born, the connection between mother and baby is severed
• The umbilical cord is clamped first and then cut through
• It is also called "Abnabeln"
• Therefore, childbirth is also called "Entbindung"
• About half an hour after the baby's birth, the woman experiences some short, weaker contractions.
• During this time, the rest of the umbilical cord and the placenta are expelled
• This is called the afterbirth.

The Baby After Birth

• A newborn is about 50 cm tall and weighs 3 kg to 4 kg.
• The baby is usually breastfed with breast milk from the mother's breast.
• This process is called breastfeeding or "Stillen"
• Breast milk contains nutrients, minerals, vitamins, and antibodies against pathogens.
• Breast milk provides a baby with everything it needs during the first few months of life.