Förlossningsarbetet

Förlossningsarbetet, commonly referred to as labor, is the process by which a baby is born. It begins with uterine contractions and ends with the delivery of the placenta. This complex physiological process is typically divided into three stages. The first stage, labor, is characterized by the dilation and effacement of the cervix. This stage is further broken down into early labor, active labor, and transition. During early labor, contractions are usually mild and spaced further apart. Active labor sees contractions becoming stronger, longer, and closer together, with significant cervical dilation. Transition is the most intense phase, where the cervix completes its dilation.

The second stage, pushing and birth, begins when the cervix is fully dilated and ends with the baby’s birth. This stage involves the mother actively pushing with contractions to move the baby down the birth canal. The healthcare provider will monitor the baby’s descent and assist as needed.

The third stage, placental delivery, commences after the baby is born and concludes with the delivery of the placenta. Uterine contractions continue, though they are typically less intense, to help the placenta detach from the uterine wall and be expelled. This stage is crucial for preventing postpartum hemorrhage. Throughout labor, monitoring of both the mother and baby's vital signs is essential to ensure a safe and healthy outcome for both.