Physiology of Normal Labour

Stage 1 stage 2 stage 3

Onset of regular uterine contractions.Dilation and effacement of the cervix there are two phases of labour The latent phase The active phase

Phase where Effacement of the cervix takes place (thinning out) from normally 2-4cm.cervix also begins to dilate so 0-4cm with irregular contractions

Onset of regular contractions with cervical dilatation to full dilatation of the cervix

During childbirth, the mother’s pelvic muscles are subjected to pressure, causing her to push down. This results in the baby being expelled from the uterus. Contractions continue to aid in the delivery process. When the baby’s head becomes visible at the opening of the vagina, it is known as “crowning”.

engagement, descent,flexion, internal rotation, extension,external rotation, expulsion

this is where the cervix is not enfaced and still intact

this is where baby starts to come out and the bay twist is being pushed by the pelvis

this is where the baby’s head is turns so it can get through the canal

After the baby head is turned it turns again so the shoulder come out then baby is expelled out

Ever increasingly strong, explosive contractions Last longer and come more frequently Urge to push. Sometimes before pushing contractions have a long

Uterine contractions compress blood vessels supplying the uterus. Placental detachment occurs. Allow the placenta to deliver naturally. Delayed cord clamping (allow extra blood and oxygen to be delivered to the baby until the pulse in the cord stops)

Human chorionic gonadotropin Oestrogen Progesterone Oxytocin

Fetal stress triggers the baby’s release of adrenocorticotropin hormone, which in turn stimulates the adrenal glands to release cortisol. The cortisol enters the baby’s bloodstream and reaches the placenta, where it affects it in three ways: by decreasing the production of progesterone and estrogen, and increasing the production of prostaglandin.

oxytocin Melatonin Endorphins

testosterone is produced primarily by the ovaries and adrenal glands

Hormonal balance - testosterone contributes to various physiological processes, including sexual development Sexual health - sensitivity of the clitoris Muscle mass and strength - Bone health - Mood and wellbeing role in medical conditions Clinical implications