Childbirth
When pregnancy comes to an end at about forty weeks, childbirth begins. Childbirth is the process of giving birth to a baby. It is also known as labor. Childbirth has three stages, beginning after the latent phase, which is when continuous contractions and cervical dilation begin. Before labor, women can benefit from many preparation classes and materials provided by health professionals and literary sources. Additionally, there are choices about birthing environments and pain medications available. Other suggestions about labor are given in this section to increase the chances of an enjoyable labor.
STAGES OF CHILDBIRTH
During the latent phase of late pregnancy, the cervix has become softer and contractions begin. Some individuals describe the contractions to be strong, while others do not notice the contractions; however, the latent phase is preparing the body for the first stage of labor.
First Stage:
Many mothers begin feeling contractions during the first stage of childbirth. Others may experience their "water break," which is caused from the amniotic sac rupturing. Others have "a bloody show," which is the discharge of the mucus plug from the cervix. Coinciding with the contractions, the cervix begins to dilate. The cervix typically dilates to about eight to ten centimeters (3.25 to 4.0 inches). This stage tends to last ten to sixteen hours for the first child, and four to eight for subsequent births. Women may become overwhelmed with the anticipation of giving birth. Because of the time span given, women who are prepared have a chance to calmly arrange and prepare for labor. Additionally, it is recommended to drink a lot of water to stay hydrated. The last part of the first stage is called the transition period, at which time many women become, irritable, disoriented, have hot or cold flushes, and may feel nauseated.
Second Sage:
This stage starts when the mother begins to push the baby out. If complications do not occur, the baby's head will begin to "crown," which is the appearance of the baby's head at the vaginal opening . The second stage usually takes a couple of hours for new moms and a shorter time for women who have gone through childbirth before.
Third Stage: The last stage of childbirth is the delivery of the placenta and fetal membranes. Even though there are contractions during this time, many women do not feel them. This stage can be anywhere from five minutes to an hour after the infant is born.
PREPARATION FOR CHILDBIRTH
Many hope for the ideal childbirth experience and take preparations for a new arrival. A hospital birth seems ideal to most; however, they must find a practitioner willing to deliver the baby. After a healthcare provider is chosen, doctor visits are suggested to make sure the pregnancy is going smoothly. Even though during the first stage of labor there is time to comfortably get ready for labor, a checklist for items or being packed for the trip can reduce anxiety before the birth. Additionally, childbirth classes are given for those who choose to take them during pregnancy. Many of these classes are called Lamaze classes, and they help relax and prepare women for childbirth. Also, a partner's preparation is just as important as the one giving birth. There are many books and links to provide more information about preparation.
ENVIRONMENT AND MEDICATION
Individuals have the choice of birthing place. This choice is personal, yet the risk of complications may sway a person's opinion.
Water Birth:
Studies have shown a rise in women giving water births. To have a water birth, the female should have a low risk pregnancy before, birth because of the lack of medical attention during water births. Birth in water tends to be quicker and less painful for the mother. It additionally leaves the baby at less risk for complications and infection after birth. Because hospitals cannot provide a water birth, many of these are done in a special tub setting, giving a more private feeling.
Hospital:
Many people choose to have their baby in a hospital, since this assures medical assistants will be there to help. Also, many hospitals have rooms designed for delivery, some of which give home-like atmospheres. If complications are expected or occur during childbirth, a hospital setting provides medical attention as needed.
Birthing Centers:
Birthing centers tend to be more family oriented instead of medically oriented. They are created to give a caring, homelike birth where professionals support you. However, less technology is available at birthing centers to give more attention to holistic care. Because of the spacious homelike rooms, they give individuals a more private experience. Additionally, there is never a separation of baby and mother during the birth process. If complications do arise, there is emergency transportation to a hospital and many birthing centers are built close to hospitals for this reason.
Home:
Home births give a private setting, which creates an enjoyable experience for some. Home births are not suggested for high-risk pregnancies because of the lack of medical attention. A midwife or someone with knowledge about labor is recommended in case complications occur. Additionally, transportation should be accessible in case of an emergency.
Medication:
Some women prefer to have a natural birth without any drugs; however, medication for the pain can be provided. A popular medical pain controller is anesthetics epidural blocks or spinal anesthesia. Some studies show that the epidural can cross the placenta and enter the bloodstream of the fetus.
COMPLICATIONS
During the second stage of childbirth, doctors can detect whether baby is coming out headfirst. If the baby is not coming out headfirst, complications can occur. Additionally, poor pelvic floor muscles, shoulder dystocia (the anterior shoulder of the infant cannot pass below the pubic symphysis), and a big baby coupled with a small maternal pelvis can cause complications during delivery. With these complications, a Caesarian section (C-section) may be provided to avoid further complications. Additionally, if a C-section is unwanted or unnecessary, forceps can be used to help bring the baby out.
References:
Hyde, Janet Shibley, and John D. Delamater. Understanding Human Sexuality. New
York: McGraw-Hill Humanities, Social Sciences& World Languages, 2007.