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Parturition

radhika5608
2 min read

  • Parturition, or childbirth, is the process by which the fetus and placenta are expelled from the uterus at the end of pregnancy.

  • It involves a series of complex physiological events and is typically divided into three stages: the first stage (latent and active phases of labour), the second stage (delivery of the baby), and the third stage (delivery of the placenta).

Mechanism of Parturition

 I.   Hormonal Factors: 

  • The onset of labor is believed to be triggered by an interplay of hormones, including increased levels of estrogen, prostaglandins, and oxytocin.

  • These hormones stimulate uterine contractions, soften the cervix (the lower part of the uterus opening into the vagina), and promote the release of more oxytocin, creating a positive feedback loop that intensifies contractions.

II.     Mechanical Factors: 

  • The growing fetus and its movement within the uterine cavity exert mechanical pressure on the cervix and uterine wall.

  • This pressure is thought to contribute to the initiation of labor.

Stages of Parturition

Stages of Parturition

1. First Stage of Labor: Cervical Dilation and Effacement

 I. Latent Phase:

  • This initial phase is characterized by the softening, shortening (effacement), and opening (dilation) of the cervix, facilitated by irregular and mild to moderate uterine contractions.

  • For first-time mothers, this phase can last from several hours to a few days.

II. Active Phase:

  • Following the latent phase, the active phase sees regular, strong contractions and more rapid dilation of the cervix, moving from 4 cm to 10 cm.

  • This phase is marked by increased pain and pressure, lasting several hours.

2. Second Stage of Labor: Delivery of the Baby

I. Pushing:

  • With the cervix fully dilated to 10 cm, the mother is encouraged to push with each contraction, aiding the baby's descent through the birth canal.

  • The emergence of the baby's head, known as "crowning," signals the imminent birth.

II. Delivery:

  • The final pushes result in the birth of the baby.

  • The healthcare provider assists by guiding the baby out and ensuring the umbilical cord is safely clamped and cut.

3. Third Stage of Labor: Delivery of the Placenta

This stage involves the delivery of the placenta, which follows the birth of the baby.

I. Separation and Expulsion:

  • After the baby is born, uterine contractions continue, leading to the separation of the placenta from the uterine wall.

  • The mother may be asked to push gently to facilitate the expulsion of the placenta, typically occurring within 5 to 30 minutes post-delivery.

II. Examination:

  • The healthcare provider examines the delivered placenta to ensure it is complete, with no fragments left behind in the uterus.

  • Retained placenta fragments could lead to postpartum complications, so careful examination is crucial.


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