Maternity / Delivery

Comprehensive care for expectant mothers and safe delivery services.

Maternity and Delivery

Maternity and delivery refer to the process of pregnancy, childbirth, and the postpartum period. A normal vaginal delivery typically involves three stages: Stage 1 (cervical effacement and dilation), Stage 2 (pushing and birth of the baby), and Stage 3 (delivery of the placenta). The postpartum period, often considered the fourth stage of labor, involves a few hours of recovery after the delivery.

Stages of labor and delivery

Stage 1: Labor

This is the longest stage, lasting 12–19 hours on average for a first pregnancy. It begins with regular uterine contractions, which cause the cervix to thin and open (dilate). Signs can include cramping, lower back pain, and the release of the mucus plug. The membranes may rupture, leading to the "water breaking".

Stage 2: Pushing and birth

This stage begins when the cervix is fully dilated (10 cm) and ends with the birth of the baby. The baby's head moves into the birth canal and is pushed out. The duration can vary from minutes to a few hours, depending on the individual. After the baby's head is born, the shoulders are delivered, and then the rest of the body follows. The umbilical cord is clamped and cut after birth.

Stage 3: Placenta delivery

This stage occurs after the baby is born and lasts about 5 to 30 minutes. Mild contractions continue to help deliver the placenta. Skin-to-skin contact and initial breastfeeding may begin.

Stage 4: Recovery

This is the immediate recovery period following the birth, typically lasting about two hours after delivery. Healthcare providers monitor the mother and baby, and the mother's body begins to return to its non-pregnant state.

Support during labor and delivery

  • Communication and respect: Healthcare professionals should communicate respectfully, explain procedures clearly, and ask for permission before taking action.
  • Support person: Having a companion of the woman's choice present can help create a sense of safety and may help oxytocin function better.
  • Comfort measures: Support can include massage, breathing techniques, helping with showers, and encouraging comfortable laboring positions.
  • Nutrition and hydration: Eating light food and drinking fluids like water, tea, or juice hourly can be beneficial during labor.
  • Movement: Staying mobile and changing positions can help support fetal descent.