Question

Answer the following question.

Explain the steps of parturition.

Answer 1

Parturition is the process of giving birth to a baby. The physical activities involved in parturition like uterine and abdominal contractions, dilation of the cervix, and passage of baby are collectively called labour. Labour is accompanied by a localised sensation of discomfort or agony called labor pains. Parturition involves the following three steps:

1. Dilation stage:

Uterine contractions begin from the top, forcing the baby towards the cervix. Contractions are accompanied by pain caused by compression of blood vessels. Oxytocin induces uterine contractions which become stronger and stronger due to stimulatory reflex. As the baby is pushed down in the uterus, its head comes to lie against the cervix. The cervix gets dilated and the vagina also shows similar dilation. This stage of labour can normally last up to few hours. It ends in the rupturing of amniotic sac of the foetus.

2. Expulsion stage:

During this stage, the uterine and abdominal contractions become stronger. In normal delivery, the fetus passes out through the cervix and vagina with head in the forward direction. It takes around 20 to 60 minutes. The umbilical cord is tied and cut off close to the baby’s navel.

3. After birth:

After the delivery of the baby, the placenta separates from the uterus and is expelled out as “after birth”, due to severe contractions of the uterus. This process happens within 10 to 45 minutes of delivery.