Midwifery Module: Labor and Delivery
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Questions and Answers

What is the primary effect of increased estrogen secretion relative to progesterone near term?

  • Promotion of uterine muscle contraction (correct)
  • Decreased oxytocin production
  • Increased relaxation of the uterine muscles
  • Suppression of uterine contractions
  • Which of the following physiological changes primarily contributes to the initiation of labor due to uterine stretch?

  • Increased progesterone levels inhibiting muscle contraction.
  • Stimulation of prostaglandin production. (correct)
  • Reduced sensitivity of myometrial cells to stimuli.
  • Decreased production of oxytocin.
  • Which hormone directly stimulates uterine contractions to initiate labor?

  • Progesterone
  • Estrogen
  • Oxytocin (correct)
  • Cortisol
  • How does artificial rupture of membranes (amniotomy) potentially stimulate uterine contractions?

    <p>Via fetal head descent stretching the cervix. (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What role do prostaglandins play in the initiation of labor?

    <p>They soften and ripen the cervix. (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    According to the 'fetal cortisol theory', what is the role of fetal cortisol in initiating labor?

    <p>It decreases progesterone and increases estrogen and prostaglandins. (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is the primary effect of decreased progesterone levels on the myometrium near labor?

    <p>Reduced muscle relaxing effect. (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is the primary focus of the module 'Labor and Delivery' for 3rd-year midwifery students?

    <p>Understanding and managing normal labor and delivery (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Which of the following best describes the role of increased estrogen levels in preparing the myometrium for labor?

    <p>It promotes the expression of proteins that promote muscle contraction. (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What change in the myometrium occurs during labor to facilitate coordinated and effective contractions?

    <p>Myometrial cells contract in a coordinated pattern. (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is the WHO definition of maternal death?

    <p>Death of a woman during pregnancy, childbirth, or within 42 days of termination, regardless of the cause. (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is one of the roles of Calcium influx during labor?

    <p>Allowing proteins within the muscle fibers to contract. (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Why is learning about obstetrics important in Ethiopia?

    <p>Because maternal and child mortality rates are high. (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Which of the following factors related to placental function is associated with the onset of labor?

    <p>The aging placenta becomes less efficient in supporting the baby. (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is the estimated neonatal mortality rate in Ethiopia in 2020?

    <p>41 deaths per 1,000 live births (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is the correct order of events?

    <p>Labor, Delivery (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is the primary role of increased vascularity in the uterus during pregnancy?

    <p>To provide nutrients and support the developing fetus. (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What best describes Braxton Hicks contractions?

    <p>Irregular and painless contractions that occur throughout pregnancy. (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is the significance of the mucus plug (operculum) that forms in the cervix during pregnancy?

    <p>It acts as a barrier against infection. (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What hormonal change primarily contributes to cervical ripening near labor?

    <p>An increase in estrogen and a decrease in progesterone. (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    How does vasodilation contribute to cervical ripening?

    <p>By increasing blood flow and causing edema (swelling) of the cervical tissue. (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is the 'bloody show' a sign of nearing labor?

    <p>Expulsion of the mucus plug as the cervix dilates. (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    How does the inflammatory response aid cervical dilation during labor?

    <p>By stimulating cytokine and enzyme production to break down cervical collagen. (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is the physiological cause of the 'lightening' that occurs in the weeks leading up to labor?

    <p>The baby dropping lower into the pelvis. (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Which of the following is a characteristic of true labor?

    <p>Progressive cervical dilation greater than 2cm. (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Which of the following would classify labor as normal?

    <p>Spontaneous onset with vertex presentation at term. (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is the primary focus of the first stage of labor?

    <p>Cervical dilatation from onset of labor to full dilatation. (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Which factor is NOT one of the four variables affecting the mechanism of labor?

    <p>The presenting part (fetal presentation). (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What cervical dilatation defines the start of the active phase of the first stage of labor?

    <p>4 cm (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Which symptom is associated to the premonitory signs of labour mentioned in the provided text?

    <p>Passage of the operculum due to cervical changes. (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What duration characterizes latent phase in primigravida?

    <p>6-8 hours (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Which of the following actions should be performed upon a mother's arrival according to the admission procedure?

    <p>Welcome the mother and her partner, greet the mother, introduce yourself, and inform relatives to wait. (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is the MOST important factor to confirm when assessing admission criteria for a woman presenting in potential labor?

    <p>Confirmation of true labor. (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    During the initial history taking in the first stage of labor, what is a critical piece of information to ascertain regarding potential preeclampsia?

    <p>Symptoms of severe preeclampsia, such as headache, blurring of vision, or epigastric pain. (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    During the abdominal examination, part of the physical examination in the first stage of labor, what does the '5's' refer to, in the context of Inspection for the 5's?

    <p>Scar, size, skin, shape, striae (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is the primary purpose of performing Leopold’s maneuvers during the abdominal examination?

    <p>To determine the fetal lie, presentation, and position. (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    In which of the following scenarios is a vaginal examination MOST clearly indicated during labor?

    <p>When there's doubt about the fetal presentation or position. (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Which action helps reduce the number of vaginal examinations performed during labor?

    <p>Careful abdominal examination and thorough information gathering during the procedure. (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    During a vaginal examination, after cleaning the vulva, why should the examiner go directly to the presenting part?

    <p>Because it is considered the most sterile portion. (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What does a green color of the ruptured membranes indicate?

    <p>Meconium (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is the significance of the fetal head being at station 0?

    <p>Head is at the level of the ischial spine (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    During labor, every how many hours should temperature be recorded?

    <p>2 hours (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Which condition is NOT a reason to report or refer during labor?

    <p>Normal fetal positioning (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What should be avoided during the first stage of labor?

    <p>Pushing (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Flashcards

    Maternal Death

    Death of a woman due to pregnancy-related causes within 42 days post-delivery.

    Child Death Rate

    The number of child deaths per 1,000 live births within a year.

    Neonatal Death

    The death of a newborn within the first 28 days of life.

    Obstetrics Importance

    Obstetrics focuses on maternal and child health to prevent deaths during childbirth.

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    Progressive Hormonal Changes

    Hormonal shifts that influence uterine contractions and labor onset.

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    Oxytocin Role

    A hormone that stimulates uterine contractions to initiate labor.

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    Prostaglandin Function

    Hormones that soften the cervix and help in labor initiation.

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    Fetal Cortisol Theory

    Mature fetus releases cortisol, affecting progesterone and labor onset.

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    Stretch of uterine musculature

    The uterus muscles stretch as the baby grows, increasing muscle excitation.

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    Cervical irritation

    The baby's presenting part pushes the cervix, leading to dilation and contractions.

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    Placental maturation

    The aging placenta becomes less efficient in supporting the fetus.

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    Biochemical factors

    Changes in enzyme and protein balance that may trigger labor.

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    Maternal stress effects

    Maternal stress can influence the onset of labor.

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    Increased contractility

    Myometrium becomes more responsive to oxytocin and prostaglandins.

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    Oxytocin receptor increase

    The number of oxytocin receptors in myometrium rises during labor.

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    Calcium influx

    Increased calcium in muscle fibers allows for effective contractions.

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    Prostaglandin Release

    Stimulates contractions and softens the cervix during labor.

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    Braxton Hicks Contractions

    Irregular, painless contractions, also known as 'practice contractions.'

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    Cervical Ripening

    Softening and effacement of the cervix due to hormonal changes near labor.

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    Mucous Plug

    Thick mucous secreted by the cervix, provides protection during pregnancy.

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    Bloody Show

    Expulsion of the mucus plug when the cervix begins to dilate.

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    Cervical Dilation

    The process of the cervix opening during labor due to contractions.

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    Endocervical Gland Secretion

    Mucus secretion from the cervix throughout pregnancy, increasing near labor.

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    Lightening Sign

    Sensation of the baby's descent into the pelvis weeks before labor.

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    Premonitory signs of labour

    Symptoms indicating that labor may begin, such as frequent urination and irregular pains.

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    Normal Labour (Eutocia)

    A process where fetus, placenta, and membranes are expelled through the birth canal under normal conditions.

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    True labour

    Characterized by painful, rhythmic contractions and progressive cervical dilation.

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    False labour

    Features irregular contractions, no cervical dilation, and discomfort only in the lower abdomen.

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    Admission Procedure

    Process of welcoming the mother and partner upon arrival.

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    4 Ps of labour

    Four key variables affecting labor: Power (contractions), Passenger (fetus), Passage (birth canal), and Psychology (mother's mental state).

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    Admission Criteria

    Conditions that confirm a woman is in true labour.

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    1st Stage Labour Management

    Taking full history and assessing mother's condition.

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    Stages of labour

    Labour is divided into four stages, with the first stage from onset to full dilation of the cervix.

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    Latent phase of labour

    The initial phase from labor onset to 4 cm cervical dilation, lasting longer in first-time births.

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    Physical Examination

    Evaluation of the mother's condition and vital signs.

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    Active phase of labour

    The phase where cervical dilation progresses from 4 cm to 10 cm, with no sensation of cervix on examination.

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    Indications for Vaginal Examination

    Reasons to perform a vaginal exam during labour.

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    Vaginal Examination Equipment

    Tools needed for conducting a vaginal examination.

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    Procedure for Vaginal Examination

    Steps to follow during the vaginal examination.

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    Findings on Vaginal Examination

    Results of the examination including fetal presentation.

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    Station

    Location of fetal head in relation to ischial spine; station=0 when head touches ischial spine.

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    Amniotic Fluid Colors

    Different colors of ruptured membranes indicate issues: clear (normal), green (meconium), golden (hemolytic disease), milky (infection).

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    Cervix Dilation Measurement

    Cervical dilation measured in centimeters; 1 finger equals 1.5-2 cm of dilation.

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    True Labor Signs

    Conditions that confirm true labor include regular contractions and cervical dilation of 4 cm or more.

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    Conditions to Report

    Report abnormal presentations, prolonged labor, fetal/maternal distress, dehydration, and any hemorrhage.

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    Study Notes

    Module Information

    • Module Name: Labor and Delivery
    • Year Level: 3rd year
    • Students: Midwifery students
    • Instructor: Kerebih Abere (BSc, MSc)
    • Email: [email protected]
    • Date: October, 2023

    Part One: Normal Labor and Delivery - Outline

    • Introduction/Overview of the Module
    • Physiology of Labor
    • Mechanism of Labor
    • Normal Labor
    • Stages of Labor
    • Management of Normal Labor
    • Immediate Newborn Care (Day 7)
    • Demonstration on Management of Normal Labor

    Introduction...cont

    • Maternal and child death rates are high in Ethiopia.
    • Maternal death is defined as the death of a woman during pregnancy, childbirth, or within 42 days of the termination of pregnancy, regardless of the duration or site of the pregnancy. This includes deaths from any cause related to or aggravated by the pregnancy or its management.
    • In 2020, 401 maternal deaths occurred per 100,000 live births.
    • In 2020, 47 child deaths occurred per 1,000 live births.
    • In 2020, 41 neonatal deaths occurred per 1,000 live births.
    • Other health concerns in Ethiopia include reproductive health, gender violence, and STIs.

    Cause of Onset of Labor

    • The exact cause is unknown, but progressive hormonal changes, progressive mechanical changes, and other triggering factors are suspected.

    Progressive Hormonal Changes

    • Increased estrogen to progesterone ratio: near term, estrogen secretion increases, while progesterone secretion remains constant or decreases.
    • Progesterone relaxes the uterus during pregnancy; its decrease allows the uterine muscles to contract.
    • Increased oxytocin production near term stimulates uterine contractions and labor.
    • Increased synthesis of prostaglandin in the decidua softens and ripens the cervix, facilitating cervical dilation and initiating labor.
    • Mature fetus secretes cortisol, which decreases progesterone levels and raises estrogen and prostaglandin levels, stimulating labor.

    Progressive Mechanical Changes

    • Stretch of uterine musculature: as the baby grows, it stretches the uterine muscle. This stretching increases muscle excitation and stimulates prostaglandin production.
    • Twins are often born 3 weeks earlier than singleton pregnancies due to a marked increase in uterine stretch.
    • Stretch or irritation of the cervix: the baby's head or presenting part pushing against the cervix leads to cervical dilation and stimulates uterine contractions.

    Other Triggering Factors

    • Placental maturation: As the placenta ages, its efficiency in supporting the baby decreases.
    • Biochemical factors: Biochemical shifts in the balance of enzymes, proteins, and other factors.
    • Maternal stress and physical activity: some research suggests that maternal stress can influence labor onset.

    Physiology of Labour

    • Labor: the process that prepares the body for childbirth, involving uterine contractions.
    • Delivery: the actual process of giving birth.
    • Physiology of labor refers to the biological and physiological processes during childbirth, involving hormonal, muscular, and neural changes.

    Myometrial Changes

    • Myometrial Changes (Prelabor): Increased contractility: Myometrium becomes more responsive to stimuli, particularly to oxytocin and prostaglandins.
    • Braxton Hicks Contractions: Irregular, painless uterine contractions.
    • Progesterone Withdrawal: Progesterone levels decrease, reducing its relaxing effect.
    • Estrogen Increase: Rising estrogen levels promote muscle contraction.
    • Myometrial Changes (During Labor): Coordination of contractions, increase in oxytocin receptors, increased calcium influx, prostaglandin release to soften the cervix.

    Uterus

    • Weight increases from 60gm to 1000gm at term
    • Size: Becomes enlarged
    • Consistency: Becomes softer due to increased vascularity and presence of amniotic fluid.
    • Capacity: Increases from 4ml to 4000ml
    • Contractility: Braxton Hicks contractions increase, irregular and painless contractions from the first trimester till delivery.

    Braxton Hicks Contraction

    • It is often called "practice contractions" or "false labor."
    • Begins in early pregnancy, but most commonly felt in the second or third trimester.
    • Become more frequent in the third trimester.
    • Preparing the uterus for actual labor, helping the body prepare for childbirth.

    Cervix

    • Becomes more vascular
    • Hypertrophied and soft
    • Clothed by a thick mucous plug (operculum).
    • Increased blood flow
    • Becomes soft near term

    Cervical Ripening (Near Labor)

    • Softening and effacement: cervical ripening and softening.
    • Hormonal changes: Increased estrogen, decreased progesterone.
    • Vasodilation: increased blood flow and edema (swelling) of cervical tissue.
    • Endocervical gland secretion: throughout pregnancy, the cervix secretes mucus; during labor, the mucous plug is expelled (bloody show).

    Cervical Dilation (During Labor)

    • Endothelial cell activation: Increased mechanical pressure from uterine contractions stretches and dilates the cervix.
    • Inflammatory response: Cytokines and enzymes (matrix metalloproteinases) breakdown cervical collagen, facilitating dilation.
    • Contraction-induced stretching: Increasing intensity of uterine contractions mechanically stretches the cervix.

    Premonitory Signs of Labour

    • Lightening: Feeling of the uterus dropping lower into the pelvis, relieving pressure on lungs and stomach.
    • Frequent micturition: increased urination due to pressure on the bladder.
    • False pains: Irregular uterine pain.
    • Slight taking up of the cervix
    • Bloody show (blood + white mucus) occurring due to leakage of operculum
    • Braxton Hicks Contractions stronger.

    Normal Labour/Eutocia - Learning Objectives

    • Define the meaning of labor.
    • Describe signs of labor.
    • List and describe the stages of labor.
    • Explain the physiology of labor.
    • Describe the mechanism of labor.
    • Demonstrate the management of normal labor.
    • Plot a partograph accurately.

    Normal Labour

    • When the fetus is born at term (>37 weeks).
    • Presentation- by vertex
    • Spontaneous onset
    • Commenced within 18 hours (not prolonged)
    • No complication arises (maternal & fetal)
    • If the mode of delivery is vaginal (SVD)

    True Labor

    • Painful, rhythmic uterine contractions
    • Progressive dilation of the cervix (>2cm)
    • Contractions unaffected by sedation
    • Discomfort in the back and abdomen
    • Show (blood + white mucus)

    False Labor

    • Irregular uterine contractions
    • No progressive dilation of cervix
    • Contractions affected by sedation
    • Discomfort only in lower abdomen
    • No show

    Mechanism of Labour

    • The ability of the fetus to negotiate the pelvis during labor and delivery depends on the complex interactions of: the power (uterine contractions); the passenger (the fetus); the passage (the pelvis & birth canal); and the psychology of the woman.

    Stages of Labour

    • First stage: from onset of labor to full dilation of the cervix
      • Latent phase: from onset of labor up to cervical dilation of 4cm, Duration = 6-8hrs in primigravida and 4-6hrs in multigravida.
      • Active phase: from 4cm to full dilation of cervix /10cm, Duration = 4-6hrs in primigravida and 2-4hrs in multigravida.
    • Second stage: from full dilation to delivery of the baby
      • Duration: 1-2 hours (primigravida); 30 minutes - 1 hour (multigravida)
    • Third stage: from delivery of the fetus to expulsion of placenta with the cord
      • Duration: 15-30 minutes
    • Fourth stage: 1-2 hours after placenta delivery

    Based on Gestational Age

    • Preterm labor: labor onset before 37 weeks
    • Term labor: labor onset within 37-42 weeks
    • Post-term labor: labor after 42 weeks

    Events in 1st Stage of Labour

    • Contractions with retraction
    • Formation of upper and lower segment
    • Development of retraction ring
    • Taking up of the cervix
    • Dilation and effacement of cervix
    • Show
    • Formation of bag of waters
    • Rupture of membranes

    Contraction and Retraction

    • The contraction starts from the fundus and goes downward, assisting cervix dilation
    • Upper pole: strong contraction & retraction to become short and thicker
    • Lower pole: slight contraction and strong dilation that becomes thin and distensible
    • Retraction ring: ring structure made to meet upper and lower segments
    • Bandls ring: visible retraction ring which is a pre-rupture sign

    Admission Procedure

    • Well-coming the mother and her partner on arrival
    • Greeting the mother
    • Introducing oneself
    • Informing relatives to wait

    Admission Criteria

    • Confirming true labor
    • Checking for show
    • Rupture of membranes
    • Regular uterine contractions
    • Cervical dilation
    • Danger signs

    Management of 1st Stage Labour

    • Taking a full history
      • Time of onset of contraction
      • Status of fetal membranes and time of rupture
      • Presence/absence of vaginal bleeding (show)
      • Presence of fetal movement
      • Symptoms of severe preeclampsia
      • History of allergy
      • Time of last ingestion of food or fluid
      • Use of any medication
      • Presence of ANC follow-up & any problems
    • Performing physical examinations
      • Observing general condition of the mother
      • Assessing for signs of anemia and dehydration
      • Taking vital signs
      • Abdominal examination
      • Inspecting for 5's (scar, size, skin, shape)
      • Palpating fetal lie & presentation
      • Measuring fundal height
      • Checking fetal heart rate and assessing frequency & duration of contractions (use Leopold maneuvers)

    Vaginal Examination in Labour

    • Indications: To decide if a woman is in labor, and when in doubt regarding presentation/position, to assess the progress of labor, and to assess the size and shape of the pelvis.
    • Reducing vaginal examinations: careful abdominal examination, finding useful information during procedure, and recording findings
    • Equipment & procedures: sterile gauze/cotton swabs, sponge forceps, antiseptic solution, sterile gloves, receiver

    Vaginal Examination

    • Ask the patient to empty her bladder
    • Put the patient in lithotomy position
    • Wash hands & wear sterile gloves
    • Clean the vulva in 3-4 ways
    • Go straight to the presenting part because it is sterile.

    Findings on V/E

    • Presenting part: which part of the fetus comes first (occiput), caput (swelling of fetal skull molding (0, +1, +2, +3), position (OA, OP & OL), station (-2,-1,0,+1,+2) relative to ischial spine. Example; if head touches ischial spine, station =0. Station − location of fetal head in relation to ischial spine.
    • Membranes: Intact, ruptured, bulge, flat. If ruptured, observe color: clear straw-normal, green-meconium (Grade 1, 2, 3), golden-hemolytic disease, Milky-infection, feel cord for prolapsed/presentation.
    • Cervix: dilation in cm (1 finger = 1.5−2cm), effacement-shortening & thinning of cervix- hard, soft, edematous thick or thin, Pelvis: promontory of the sacrum — reachable/side walls, straight, convergent, divergent, ischial spines − blunt, prominent
    • Sacral curvature, Pubic arch, Bituberous diameter, Vagina, Perineum, Vulva

    Management of Latent Labour

    • Cx-dilation <4cm, check vital sign every 4 hours
    • Do V/E (Cx dilation/other) every 4 hours, diet-fluid
    • No need for sleeping in bed
    • She can move/rest in nearest to health institution.

    Partograph/Labour Graph

    • Used to follow labor progress
    • Advantage: shows time taken in first stage of labor, easy to understand miss-managements, simple for communication, used for research & teaching aid, and quick & time saving
    • The graph has 3 sections: Fetal part, Maternal part, and labor progress
      • Descent
      • Contraction
      • Cx-dilation

    Patient Information for Partograph

    • Name, gravida, para, hospital number
    • Date and time of admission
    • Time of ruptured membranes
    • Fetal heart rate (record every half hour, mark with dot (.))—Normal 120−160 beat/min; max (100−180)

    Amniotic Fluid

    • Record the color of amniotic fluid at every vaginal examination (4 hours).
    • Membranes intact (I)
    • Membranes ruptured − clear fluid (R(C))
    • Blood-stained fluid (R(B))
    • Meconium-stained fluid (R(m);(grade:1,2,3))
    • Grade 1: Good volume of liquor, lightly meconium stained
    • Grade 2: Reasonable volume with heavy suspension of meconium
    • Grade 3: Dark, thick meconium which is undiluted

    Molding

    • Normal separation/can feel sutures (0)
    • Bones meet together, not overlap (+1)
    • Overlapping can be pushed back/reducible (+2)
    • Overlapping can't be separated/not reducible (+3)

    Station

    • Descent by vaginal examination; -2,-1,0,+1,+2
    • At ischial spine (0)
    • Below ischial spine (+)
    • Head is above ischial spine (−)
    • Hours: Time elapsed since onset of active phase of labor
    • Time: Record actual time
    • Contractions: Chart every half hour; palpate the number of contractions in 10 minutes and their duration (length, strength & frequency).

    Contractions

    • Less than- 20 seconds
    • Between 20−40 seconds: moderate
    • More than 40−60 seconds: strong
    • Adequate contraction: >=3 strong contraction within 10 minute
    • Oxytocin: Record amount per volume IV fluids in drops/min. every 30min when used.
    • Drugs given: Record any additional drugs given.
    • Temperature: Record every 2 hours
    • Pulse: Record every 30 minutes and mark with a dot (•)
    • Blood pressure: Record every 4 hours and mark with arrows ()
    • Urine: Protein, acetone, and volume, record every time urine is passed.

    Descent

    • Assessed by abdominal palpation
    • Part of head palpable above the symphysis pubis: Recorded as a circle (O) at every vaginal examination
    • At 0/5, head is below the symphysis pubis, e.g. 2/5 = 0 station, 2/5 means 3 fingers inter to brim
    • Alert line: Start at 4 cm of cervical dilation to the point of expected full dilation at the rate of 1 cm/hr
    • Action line: Parallel and 4 hours to the right of the alert line

    Active Phase

    • Cervical dilation is plotted on the alert line (4cm)
    • If progress is satisfactory, the plotting of cervical dilation will remain to the left of the alert line.
    • The latent phase is from 0-3 cm dilation, should not last longer than 8 hours
    • The active phase is from 4-10 cm, & dilation should be at the rate of at least 1 cm/hr

    When Labor Progresses Well

    • Dilation should not move to the right of the alert line
    • If admission to the hospital takes place in the active phase, the cervical dilation is immediately plotted on the alert line.
    • Cx moves right of the alert line; poor progress and indicates some problems. Cx crosses action line – danger, take immediate action.

    Examples (Partograph Plottings)

    • Case examples including patient details, time of admission, cervical dilation, descent, molding, urine, blood pressure, pulse, temperature, fetal heart rate, membranes, contractions, and more details for plotting.
    • Multiple case examples illustrating various scenarios are provided.

    Take Aways

    • Definition of Labor
    • Normal Labor criteria
    • Labor can be (true/false). Cases of labor onset
      • Hormonal factors
      • Mechanical factors
    • Mechanism of Labor − interaction b/n 4Ps
    • Stages of Labor: labor has 4 stages
    • Admission criteria: 6 criteria to admit. Management of first-stage labor with events in first stage of labor

    Second Stage of Labor

    • From full dilation to the delivery of the baby.
    • Positive signs: No cervix felt on V/E
    • Probable signs: Stronger contractions, mother wants to push, membranes rupture, anal and vulvar gaping, perineum bulging.

    Physiology of 2nd Stage

    • Contractions are shorter and more frequent.
    • Abdominal muscles and diaphragm act as expulsive mechanisms.
    • Pelvic floor is displaced.
    • The fetus is expelled.
    • Mother wants to push.

    Mechanism of Labor

    • A series of passive movements of the fetus through the birth canal, involving: Engagement, Descent, Flexion, Internal Rotation, Extension, External Rotation (Restitution), Expulsion.

    Preparation for Delivery

    • Equipment and materials needed: Suction apparatus, Oxygen, Antiseptic solution, Gloves, Cotton & Gauze swabs, Uterotoxic drugs (Oxytocin), Protective (gown, apron, cap, goggles, long shoes), and IP materials (decontaminants)
      • Vitamin K, Cord tie
      • Delivery set, Epi-set
    • Position − (Lithotomy) as mother's preference
    • Explain procedure
    • Talk to her — verbal anesthesia
    • Patient preparation — position the mother (lithotomy or), encourage her to push, explain what's happening, put on personal protective equipment, arrange & check equipment, keep constant contact with mother.

    Episiotomy

    • Def: An incision into the perineal body during the second stage of labor to widen the vulval orifice.
    • It is a second-degree tear.
    • Indications: Prevent tear in tight perineum, prevent cerebral damage in preterm & after coming head in breech delivery, widen outlet in instrumental delivery, in second-stage delay (to facilitate), prevent previous tears from recurring.
    • Types: Medio-lateral (commonly used, fast healing), median (dangerous, may extend to third-degree tear), J-shaped (repair & healing difficult), lateral (may affect Bartholin's glands).
    • How to perform: Perform at the height of contraction (Should not be more than 3 cm), Inject local anesthesia (10 ml), Wait 1-2 minutes, Insert two figures behind perineum to protect the head, Insert scissors and point to the side, Perform single deliberate cut at the height of contraction.
    • Repair: Repair within one hour of anesthesia, start at the apex (end point of scissor), Clean the perineum & change the upper glove, Suture in three layers (mucosa, muscle & skin), suture vaginal wall (mucosa) in continuous, Suture the muscle & skin with separate sutures/intrapted, Insert small gloved finger into the perineum after closure
    • Delivery: Assess labor progress via V/E, Perform episiotomy if perineum is tight, Put one hand over fetal head to maintain flexion and prevent fast delivery, Place gauze or pad on perineum to prevent tear & contamination from stool, After head delivery, check for cord around the neck, and cut, Hold head with left hand and clean eye & mouth with right hand using gauze, Wait for rotation of shoulders, deliver baby down wards, then upwards, slip hand over the body and lift, dry baby, cover with cloth, assess breathing

    3rd Stage of Labour

    • Begins immediately after delivery of the baby and lasts when the placenta is expelled
    • Usual length: 5−15 minutes
    • Retained placenta: If it lasts more than 30 minutes; up to 1 hour is normal.
    • Physiology of 3rd stage of labor: Separation of placenta, Descent of the placenta, Expulsion of the placenta, Control of bleeding (by living ligature)
    • Signs of placental separation: Uterus rises to the level of the umbilicus; Gash of blood; Cord seems to lengthen, Cord will not return back on supra-pubic pressure. At the end of 3rd stage: Uterus is midway b/n the Sp and umbilicus, no bleeding, bladder empty.
    • Expulsion of the placenta: By the action of living ligature, Contraction of d/t fibers (like crisscross, longitudinal & circular fiber), Other clotting mechanism, Oxytocic drugs, Contraction & relaxation of uterine muscles
    • Method of placental expulsion
      • Maternal effort
      • Fundal pressure
      • Controlled cord traction with out oxytocin
      • Active management of 3rd stage of labor/AMSTL—Administration of oxytocic drugs with in 1 minute of birth of the baby then controlled cord traction (CCT) with first uterine contraction.
    • Benefits of AMTSL: Shorter duration of third stage of labor, less maternal blood loss, less need for oxytocin in postpartum period, less anemia in postpartum period.
    • Procedures of AMTSL: Palpate the mother's abdomen to rule out additional baby, give 10 IU of oxytocin IM, Clamp the cord close to perineum, Apply supra-pubic pressure, Wait, gently pull downward. When the placenta is visible pull upward.

    4th Stage of Labour

    • The first 1-2 hours after the delivery of the placenta
    • Monitoring the woman and her baby's condition
    • Checking uterus, every 15 minutes (4 times in 1st hour and two more times), V/S and condition of baby frequently
    • Observing for and taking care of bleeding, Encouraging her to pass urine, Breast feeding within 1 hour of delivery

    Neonatal Assessment

    • General examination − Appearance, activity, breathing, cyanosis, jaundice, pallor, temperature, & APGAR score
    • Weight (2.5-3.9 kg, low birth weight [1.5-2.5 kg], very low birth weight [<1.5 kg])
    • Length (48-52 cm)
    • Head circumference (32-34 cm)
    • Chest circumference (30-33 cm)

    APGAR Score

    • Score done at 1st and 5th minute of birth
    • Normal score: >8 from a total of 10—Asphyxia neonaterum, failure of the newborn to breathe at birth
      • Severe (1−3 APGAR)
      • Moderate (4−5 APGAR)
      • Mild (6−7 APGAR)

    Immunization (for newborns)

    • BCG (better to give as early as possible, but can be given till 45 days)
    • OPV0 (before 14 days of birth)
    • Store vaccine at 2-8°C
    • BCG should not be given for HIV+ neonates
    • Do not give vaccine with infection/illness; continue after recovery
    • Give IM injection; deep IM is better to reduce SE
    • BCG: superficial is good to reduce SE

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    Description

    This quiz focuses on the essential aspects of labor and delivery, particularly the hormonal changes and physiological processes involved. Designed for 3rd-year midwifery students, it covers critical topics such as the roles of estrogen, progesterone, and prostaglandins in labor initiation. Test your knowledge on the definitions, physiological changes, and practical applications related to labor and delivery.

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