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Overview of LaborWhat is labor?Labor is a series of continuous, progressive contractions of the uterus which help the cervix to open (dilate) and to thin (efface), allowing the fetus to move through the birth canal. Labor usually starts two weeks before or after the estimated date of delivery. However, no one knows exactly what triggers the onset of labor. What are the signs of labor?Signs of labor vary from woman to woman, as each woman experiences labor differently. Some common signs of labor may include:
If a woman feels unsure if labor is beginning, she should always call her doctor or midwife. What are the different stages of labor?Each labor is different. However, labor typically is divided into three stages:
Each labor experience is different and the amount of time in each stage will vary. However, labor in a first pregnancy usually lasts about 12 to 14 hours. Labor is generally shorter for subsequent pregnancies.
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Click Image to Enlarge Induction of laborIn some cases, labor has to be "induced," which is a process of stimulating labor to begin. The reasons for induction vary. Labor induction is not done before 39 weeks of pregnancy unless there is a problem. Some common reasons for induction include the following:
Some common techniques of induction include the following:
Care at the hospital during laborWhen a woman arrives at the hospital in labor, the nursing staff may perform a physical examination of the abdomen to determine the size and position of the fetus, and an examination of the cervix. In addition, the nursing staff may check the following:
Intravenous fluids are sometimes given during labor. The intravenous line, a thin plastic tube inserted into a vein (usually in the patient's forearm), can also be used to administer medications. Intravenous fluids are usually given once active labor has begun, and are also needed when a woman has epidural anesthesia. The fetus, too, is carefully monitored during labor. A monitor placed over the mother's abdomen will keep track of the fetal heart rate. What are pain management options during labor?A woman has many options for managing the discomforts that occur during labor and the birth of her baby. Generally, mothers and their doctors or midwives want to use the safest and most effective method of pain relief for both mother and baby. The choice will be determined by:
There are three main types of pain management for labor and birth:
Which characteristic is associated with false labor contractions?Signs of false labor include:
Irregular and unpredictable contractions (for example, intervals between contractions of ten minutes, six minutes, two minutes, eight minutes, etc.) There is no progression of labor. Contractions are felt as a generalized abdominal tightening.
What intervention does the nurse perform to provide a relaxed environment for labor?A relaxed environment for labor is created by controlling sensory stimuli (e.g., light, noise, temperature) and reducing interruptions. Nurses should remain calm and unhurried in their approach and sit rather than stand at the bedside whenever possible (Creehan, 2008).
Which are the causes of somatic pain in a client who is in the second phase of labor?Stretching of the pelvic ligaments is the hallmark of the second stage of labour. Second stage pain is characterised by a combination of visceral pain from uterine contractions and cervical stretching and somatic pain from distension of vaginal and perineal tissues.
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