PSYC 4070 Chapter : Ch 3 4
Document Summary
Labor typically begins p approx 266 days p conception. Labor begins when hormones (like oxytocin) are released. * longest stage - contractions r 8-10 mins apart & last about 30 secs ea. * toward end of labor contractions come every 2 mins & last almost 2 mins. * transition - final part of stage 1. Dialation of cervix 2 approx 10 centimeters. Allows baby"s head 2 pass thru cervix 2 birth canal. * baby"s head emerges further from mother w/ea contraction this increases size of vaginal opening. Crowning - top of baby"s head emerges from mother. * stage 2 ends with complete passage of the baby. * shortest stage - lasts a few mins. * occurs when placenta & umbilical cord expelled from mother. Labor usu. takes 16-24 hours - there are variations (longer for 1st time mothers - shorter 4 subsequent births) Spontaneous act - allows them 2 clear fluid from lungs. Can then start 2 breathe on own.
