Childbirth, in most cases, takes place at the physiological end of pregnancy (around 40 weeks) in several ways, including:
- vaginal delivery
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- spontaneous and natural;
- accompanied by pharmacological intervention (induction with oxytocin or administration of an epidural);
- following a previous caesarean section (VBAC=vaginal birth after caeserian);
- in water;
- at home;
- caesarean section
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- planned (by the doctor or at the patient's request);
- emergency.
In the period leading up to it, the woman may experience contractions of the uterus, which, as time passes, increase in frequency and grow in intensity; the woman also feels the bottom of the uterus drooping. The approach of the moment is indicated by at least one of the very precise premonitory signs listed
possible rupture of the 'waters' (amniotic sac). This can be perceived by the simple 'trickle' of warm liquid, which (unlike urine) cannot be stopped, leading to a profuse and unstoppable 'cascade'. Every woman may experience this rupture in a completely different way. The waters may also remain intact until labour contractions arrive. To help you, you could wear vaginal tampons and protect your bed with absorbent sheets.
the possible painless discharge of mucous-gelatinous vaginal discharge (mucous plug). These are transparent in colour with possible pink or reddish veins (if very red, seek medical attention promptly) and you may also notice them simply in your undergarment.
an increase in the frequency of uterine contractions, which become more rhythmic with gradually decreasing intervals and may be accompanied by painful sensations (pain in the lower abdomen or back).
These are the symptoms of labour and it is at this point that the woman should present herself at the birth centre where she has decided to give birth, for admission.
Instead, rush quickly to the hospital if even one of these occurs:
- you do not feel the movement of the baby
- your waters break or tear before you have entered the 37th week
- your urine is a different colour and smell
- you have vaginal bleeding
During labour and delivery, the midwife takes care of the mother and baby, listening regularly to their heartbeats.
Contractions become more and more frequent, and when the cervix (birth canal) is completely open (ready), the woman feels the need to push: the moment of actual delivery begins.
Under the stimulus of contractions, the cervix gradually dilates until it reaches what is considered to be a full dilation of 10 cm. Meanwhile, the baby's head begins to descend along the birth canal.