Term |
Description |
The First Stage of Labour |
The period from the onset of regular, painful contractions until the cervix is fully dilated to 10 cm, preparing for the baby's passage through the birth canal. |
The Second Stage of Labour |
Begins with full dilation of the cervix and ends with the delivery of the baby. This stage involves active pushing and descent of the baby through the birth canal. |
The Third Stage |
Starts with the delivery of the baby and ends with the delivery of the placenta. This stage is critical for the removal of the placenta and any remaining fetal membranes to prevent postpartum haemorrhage. |
Presentation |
Refers to the part of the fetus that lies over the cervical opening; can be cephalic (head first), breech (buttocks or feet first), or shoulder. |
Presenting Part |
The specific part of the fetus (such as the occiput, brow, face, sacrum, or foot) that is first felt during a vaginal examination. |
Position of the Fetus |
Describes the orientation of the presenting part relative to the mother's pelvis. Common positions include occipitoanterior (OA) and occipitoposterior (OP) for cephalic presentations. |
Engagement |
Occurs when the widest part of the fetal head has passed through the maternal pelvic brim, indicating the baby has entered the pelvis in preparation for birth. |
Moulding |
The shaping of the fetal head as it passes through the birth canal, often resulting in temporary overlapping of the skull bones. |
Caput |
A localized swelling on the fetal scalp caused by pressure against the cervix or vaginal walls during labour, usually harmless and resolves shortly after birth. |