(2) False labor. Show is not present in false labor. However, the mother
may have an old, brownish discharge especially if she had a vaginal exam within the
last 48 hours.
c. Cervix.
(1) True labor. In true labor, the cervix becomes effaced and dilates
progressively. This change can be identified within an hour or two.
(2) False labor. In false labor, the cervix is usually un-effaced and closed.
There is no change identified if the cervix is rechecked in an hour or two.
d. Fetal Movement.
(1) True labor. There is no significant change in fetal movement even
though the fetal continues to move.
(2) False labor. Fetal movement may intensify for a short period or it may
remain the same.
2-3.
OVERVIEW OF THE LABOR PROCESS-FOUR STAGES
a. First Stage of Labor. The first stage of labor is referred to as the "dilating"
stage. It is the period from the first true labor contractions to complete dilatation of the
cervix (10cm) (see figure 2-2). The forces involved are uterine contractions. The first
stage of labor is divided into three phases:
(1)
Latent (early) or prodromal.
(2)
Active or accelerated.
(3)
Transient or transitional.
b. Second Stage of Labor. The second stage of labor is referred to as the
"delivery or expulsive" stage. This is the period from complete dilatation of the cervix to
birth of the baby. The forces involved are uterine contractions plus intra-abdominal
pressure.
c. Third Stage of Labor. The third stage of labor is referred to as the
"placental" stage. This is the period from birth of the baby until delivery of the placenta.
The forces involved are uterine contractions and intra-abdominal pressure.
d. Fourth Stage of Labor. The fourth stage of labor is referred to as the
"recovery or stabilization" stage. This period begins with the delivery of the placenta
and ends when the uterus no longer tends to relax. The forces involved are uterine
contractions
MD0922
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