Tag: labor
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Shoulder Dystocia
You’ve gotten through labor. You’re 10cm dilated and 100% effaced. It’s time to push. Baby’s head has been delivered. But, the maternity provider says, the rest of baby’s body is not getting through the birth canal. One or both of your baby’s shoulders is stuck behind your pubic bone. Shoulder Dystocia is a medical emergency…
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Inductions
Induction is the artificial start or continuation of labor. An induction may be recommended by your provider for a variety of health reasons concerning you or your baby. Inductions may be mechanical or medicinal. This list is not all-inclusive but represents the most common forms of induction. Medicines used in Induction Prostaglandins – are lipids…
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Epidurals
There is much discussion about epidurals. But what is the procedure? Which medications are used? And, how does it affect mother and baby? The Procedure An epidural is a procedure in which a needle is inserted into the lumbar region of your vertebral column, backbone. A catheter (tube) is threaded through the needle and is…
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Five Ways to Know You’re Progressing WITHOUT a Vaginal Exam
Spontaneous Rupture of Membrane (SROM) When your water breaks on its own, it is called Spontaneous Rupture of Membranes (SROM). It can happen at any time during labor. Only 10% of women have it happen before contractions start. When it does happen before contractions, the birthing person usually is 24 to 48 hours away from…
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The End of Early Labor
5cm dilated is considered the end of early labor. Typically, the pregnant person is at home at this time. So, the characteristics of contractions are used to gauge if this phase has been completed. The pregnant person’s subjective perspective of when contractions start and stop and whether the contractions feel ‘stronger’ are very important. When…
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Early Labor
Labor is divided into the 1st, 2nd, and 3rd stages. During the 1st stage of labor, the cervix effaces (softens, shortens, and thins) and dilates (opens). This first stage happens in two phases: Early Labor-1 to 5cm dilated- and Active Labor- 6 to 10cm dilated. These are the signs your body is getting prepared for…
Wisdom The Sweetness 