porodu

Poród (birth) is the process by which a fetus is delivered from the uterus, completing pregnancy and initiating the postpartum period. In obstetric practice, poród covers labor, delivery, and the early transition to life outside the womb, including the expulsion of the placenta and initial maternal recovery. The term is used in Polish medical contexts, with poród as the noun and porodu as its genitive form.

Labor is commonly divided into three stages. The first stage involves cervical dilation and effacement, beginning with regular contractions and ending when the cervix is fully dilated. It is further divided into latent and active phases and can vary in duration, often longer in first pregnancies. The second stage runs from full dilation to the birth of the baby and involves pushing. The third stage spans delivery of the placenta and membranes, typically occurring within minutes after birth.

Birth can occur through several routes. Spontaneous vaginal delivery is common when there are no contraindications. Assisted vaginal birth uses instruments such as forceps or a vacuum extractor to aid delivery. A cesarean section may be planned or performed emergently if vaginal birth poses risks to the mother or baby.

Pain management and care during poród vary. Options include nonpharmacological methods, systemic analgesics, and regional anesthesia such as an epidural. Continuous monitoring of the fetal heart rate and maternal vitals helps guide decisions during labor.

Postpartum care focuses on recovery, monitoring for complications such as bleeding or infection, and supporting breastfeeding and mother–baby bonding. In Polish usage, poród includes natural and assisted vaginal births as well as cesarean deliveries, with terminology adapting to specific clinical and cultural contexts.