Preparation for giving
birth:
Giving birth is a physiologic process that happens in two phases: the
dilatation phase and the expulsion phase.
In each of this two phases things happen that make it possible for giving
birth of the child. In the dilatation stage the muscular contractions
in the uterus cause the dilation of the uterus neck and to push the child.
At the beginning of the dilatation phase: the contractions have to dilate
the uterus neck until it is around 10 cm, which has the same diameter
than the baby's head. From this moment on, the contractions change and
now everything concentrates on pushing the baby.
Contractions are essential
in the process of giving birth. Contractions last several hours until
the cervix has dilated. At the beginning the contractions are very sporadic
and maybe unnoticed. Later on the contractions get closer and last longer.
Pregnant women prepare in relaxations and breathing techniques, what helps a lot in the dilatation process.
Average dilatation times in the first pregnancy: |
0,5 - 5 cms |
5 hours |
5 - 7 cms |
2 hours |
7 - 9 cms |
1 hour |
9 - 11 cms |
30 minutes |
At the beginning of
the contractions the woman should breathe slowly and deeply and try different
relaxations techniques. Then when the contractions get more frequent and
intense it's recommended to start a superficial and fast breathing.
During the two phases of giving birth there are things the woman can do
to make it go more natural and easier or the opposite . It's dangerous
and incorrect trying to push the baby before it's time for giving birth,
it could cause unnecessary fatigue and bleeding in the uterus. Normally
the doctor will tell the woman when to push. When the dilatation of the
uterus neck is the same of the baby's head the phase of expulsion starts.
When the dilatation
is complete, use the quick breathing to help in the expulsion of the baby.
The expulsion of the baby is the hardest of the two phases of giving birth.
It need a great physical effort.When the moment to push comes it's important
to imagine the position of the baby and push with the diaphragm and the
abdominal muscles. Fill the lungs with air, then hold it , support the
chin on your chest and push the shoulders front and back.
It's important to control the breathing during giving birth, when you
need to push, start breathing fast and shallow.
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