Chapter 3

Describe the normal process of labor. The first stage of labor contractions occur about every 8 to 10 minutes, increasing in frequency, duration, and intensity until the mother's cervix expands. In the second stage of labor, which lasts about 90 minutes, the baby begins to move through the cervix and birth canal and ultimately leaves the mother's body. In the third stage of labor, which lasts only a few minutes, the umbilical cord and placenta are expelled from the mother.

Describe what occurs in the first few hours of a newborn's life. After it emerges, the newborn, or neonate, is usually inspected for irregularities, cleaned, and returned to its mother and father. It also undergoes newborn screening tests.

Describe some of the current approaches to childbirth. Parents-to-be have a variety of choices regarding the setting for the birth, medical attendants, and whether to use painreducing medication. Sometimes, medical intervention, such as Cesarean birth, becomes necessary.

Describe some of the causes of, effects of, and treatments for preterm births. Preterm, or premature, infants, born less than 38 weeks following conception, generally have low birthweight, which can cause chilling, vulnerability to infection, respiratory distress syndrome, and hypersensitivity to environmental stimuli. They may even show adverse effects later in life, including slowed development, learning disabilities, behavior disorders, below-average IQ scores, and problems with physical coordination. Very-low- birthweight infants are in special danger because of the immaturity of their organ systems. However, medical advances have pushed the age of viability of the infant back to about 24 weeks following conception.

Identify the risks that postmature babies face. Postmature babies, who spend extra time in their mothers' wombs, are also at risk. However, physicians can artificially induce labor or perform a Cesarean delivery to address this situation.

Describe the process of cesarean delivery and explain reasons for its increase in use. Cesarean deliveries are performed when the fetus is in distress, in the wrong position, or unable to progress through the birth canal. The routine use of a fetal monitor has con- tributed to a soaring rate of Cesarean deliveries.

Describe rates of infant mortality and what factors affect these statistics. The infant mortality rate in the United States is higher than the rate in many other countries, and higher for low-income families than higher-income families.

Describe the causes and effects of postpartum depression.

Describe the physical capabilities of the newborn.

Describe the sensory capabilities of the newborn.