Childbirth is the natural finale of pregnancy and the beginning of a new life. It is the process by which the baby and the placenta exit the mother's uterus. It is a complex physiological process involving three different phases and requiring cooperation of many systems of the female body.
The duration of the labour varies significantly. In primiparous women, labour is usually slower than in multiparous women.
First Phase: Cervical Dilation
The first phase of labour is usually the longest and is divided into three subphases:
Second Phase: Baby's Expulsion
The second phase begins when the cervix is fully dilated and ends with the baby's birth. During this phase, the mother feels an intense need to push. Uterine contractions, combined with voluntary pressure of abdominal muscles, help the baby to be born.
This phase can last from a few minutes to several hours. For primiparous women, it usually lasts 1-3 hours, while for multiparous women it may be just a few minutes.
Third Phase: Placenta Delivery
After the baby's birth, the uterus continues to contract to expel the placenta and fetal membranes. This phase usually lasts 5-30 minutes. The placenta must be carefully examined to ensure it has been completely expelled.
Natural Birth
Natural birth is the physiological birthing process through the vaginal canal. It offers many advantages for both the mother and the baby:
Advantages for mother:
Advantages for baby:
Cesarean Section
Cesarean section is surgical intervention performed when natural birth is considered dangerous for the mother or the baby. It can be scheduled or emergency.
Indications for cesarean:
Prenatal Education:
Physical Preparation
Psychological Preparation
Psychological preparation is equally important as physical. It includes:
Natural Methods
Pharmacological Methods
Dystocia
Dystocia refers to difficulty or inability of labour to progress. It can be due to:
Fetal Distress
Fetal distress indicates that the baby is not tolerating the labour contractions well. Signs include:
Postpartum Hemorrhage
The first hours after delivery are critical for the mother and the baby:
Physical Recovery
Recovery from delivery varies depending on birth type:
Natural Birth:
Cesarean Section:
Gentle Birth
Gentle birth focuses on creating a more natural and less medicalized birth environment. It includes:
Water Birth
Water birth is becoming an increasingly popular choice for:
Supportive Environment
The presence of the loved ones (partner, family) during delivery proves to:
Childbirth is one of the most important experiences in a woman's life. Understanding the processes, preparation, and support from healthcare professionals and loved ones are important to a positive birth experience.
Every delivery is unique, and what matters most, is the health of the mother and the baby. With proper preparation, information, and support, women can approach childbirth with confidence and experience this magical moment of birth with the best possible experience.
Kostis Nikolopoulos supports physiological and interventional deliveries, with respect for each woman's needs.
