Normal Labour

Question 1

Definition of normal labour

Answer 1

Spontaneous in onset, low risk at the start and remaining so throughout labour and delivery, the infant being born spontaneously in the vertex position between 37-42 completed weeks of pregnancy

Question 2

Describe Braxton Hicks

Answer 2

• Irregular, mild contractions that do not increase in frequency nor intensity
• Usually experienced in third trimester but can occur in the second

Question 3

Treatment for Braxton Hicks

Answer 3

• Dehydration can make muscles spasm, bringing on a contraction. Adequate hydration can alleviate them.
• Lying down on the left side can help ease the pain of contractions.
• A full bladder can sometimes trigger Braxton Hicks, so urination may end the contractions.

Question 4

Describe the stages of labour

Answer 4

• 1st stage, begins with regular contractions and ends at full dilatation
• 2nd stage, starts with full cervical dilatation and ends with delivery of foetus
• 3rd stage, period between delivery of foetus and delivery of placenta and foetal membranes

Question 5

Management of 1st stage of labour

Answer 5

• Obs, FHR, UA, Cx, membranes, colour of liquor

- Let the woman assume the position most comfortable for her

Question 6

What is Lochia

Answer 6

• Vaginal discharge after giving birth (puerperium)
• Contains blood, mucus, and uterine tissue.
• Lochia discharge typically continues for 4 to 6 weeks after childbirth, which is known as the postpartum period.

“should be like a period or less”