Labor, Delivery & Post Period Of Pregnancy
The first signs of labor can be the loss of your mucus plug, your water breaking, and/or regular contractions. Labor progresses in stages and normal progression means that vaginal delivery is possible. If there are complications, your doctor may choose to delivery through C-section to lower the risk of trauma to you and your baby. After delivery, you may experience sore breasts, incontinence, vaginal discharge, hemorrhoids, and discomfort around your vagina (especially if an episiotomy was conducted). Some mothers experience what is known as the baby blues which may include crying, irritability, or sadness. This is often due to the hormonal and physical changes that take place after childbirth. Talk to your doctor if your physical or emotional symptoms become more serious.
Recently Answered
- Q What is tocolytic medicine?
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Tocolytics are medicines that are used to slow or stop the contractions of a woman's uterus during pregnancy. They are typically given to women who are in preterm labor to try to delay birth for 1 to 2 days.This delay may be needed for a variety of... Full Answer
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- Q How do I get ready for labor?
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Paula Greer, Midwifery NursingAs the time for the birth of your baby approaches there are many things you can do to get ready. The first thing you might want to consider is taking a childbirth class or breastfeeding class that may be offered in your community. Many childbirth... Full Answer
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- Q Where can I get more information about the labor process?
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Paula Greer, Midwifery NursingPreparing for labor is like planning to go on a long trip to somewhere you have never been before. The more research you do the more comfortable you will feel when faced in a strange place. Many hospitals and birthing centers offer childbirth classes... Full Answer
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- Q Can an epidural slow down labor?
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Dr. Michael Roizen, Internal MedicineAn epidural does not slow labor. Watch this video to learn what studies have shown about the effects of an epidural on labor. Full Answer
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- Q How does a spinal block work during labor and delivery?
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A spinal block -- like an epidural block -- is an injection in the lower back. While you sit or lie on your side in bed, a small amount of medication is injected into the spinal fluid to numb the lower half of the body. It brings good relief from... Full Answer
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- Q Why should I do back stretching exercises after giving birth?
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Rick Olderman, Physical TherapyMost statistics say that back pain during pregnancy resolves on its own within about three months after giving birth. It's no wonder because the main protagonist is now lying in a crib! But not having back pain doesn't mean that all the issues... Full Answer
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- Q How can I tell if I have diastasis recti?
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Rick Olderman, Physical TherapyTo test whether you have a significant separation of your abdominal muscles or diastasis recti, lie down on your back with your knees bent. Place your fingers over the center of your abdomen. Nod your chin to your chest and lift your shoulders... Full Answer
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- Q What is the perineum?
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The area between where the bottom of the vaginal opening and the anus is called the perineum. It is sensitive to both light touch (like stroking) and deep pressure (like massage). The perineum is sensitive to deep pressure because of its proximity to... Full Answer
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- Q What type of pain medication may be used during labor and delivery?
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There are two types of pain-relieving drugs used during labor and delivery -- analgesics and anesthetics. Analgesia is the relief of pain without total loss of feeling or muscle movement. Analgesics do not always stop pain completely, but they do... Full Answer
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- Q When can I receive an epidural during labor?
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The decision of when you will receive your epidural will be a joint decision between you, your anesthesiologist and obstetrician. This decision may be influenced by such factors as your pain level, level of dilation, position of the baby, and... Full Answer
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