Define normal labour, describe 4 stages of normal labour, describe 4 factors that cause labour complications?

Normal labour is the process by which a baby is born through the natural contractions of the uterus and the pushing of the mother. It typically occurs around 40 weeks of pregnancy and is divided into four stages:

1. Stage 1: Early labour - This stage is characterized by mild contractions that help to thin and dilate the cervix. It can last for several hours or even days.

2. Stage 2: Active labour - During this stage, the contractions become stronger and more frequent, and the cervix continues to dilate. The mother may also begin to feel the urge to push as the baby moves down the birth canal.

3. Stage 3: Delivery of the baby - This is the stage when the baby is born. The mother will continue to push until the baby's head and shoulders are delivered, followed by the rest of the body.

4. Stage 4: Delivery of the placenta - After the baby is born, the placenta is delivered. This stage is usually quick and relatively painless.

Labour complications can arise due to various factors, including:

1. Prolonged labour - When labour lasts longer than usual, it can lead to exhaustion for both the mother and the baby. This can increase the risk of complications such as infection or the need for a cesarean section.

2. Fetal distress - If the baby shows signs of distress during labour, such as an abnormal heart rate, it may indicate that the baby is not getting enough oxygen. This can lead to complications such as brain damage or stillbirth.

3. Malpresentation - If the baby is not in the optimal position for delivery, such as being breech or transverse, it can make labour more difficult and increase the risk of complications.

4. Placental abruption - This is a serious complication where the placenta separates from the uterine wall before the baby is born. It can lead to heavy bleeding and endanger both the mother and the baby.

Definition of Normal Labour:

Normal labour is the natural process of childbirth that involves rhythmic contractions of the uterus, leading to the delivery of a healthy baby and placenta. It typically occurs between 37 and 42 weeks of pregnancy and progresses in four stages.

Four Stages of Normal Labour:

Stage 1: Latent Phase (Early Labour)

- Regular, mild uterine contractions occur 10-15 minutes apart.
- Cervical dilation progresses from 0 to 3 cm.
- Lasts 8-10 hours for first-time mothers and shorter for subsequent births.

Stage 2: Active Phase (Established Labour)

- Contractions become more intense and frequent, occurring 2-3 minutes apart.
- Cervical dilation progresses from 4 to 10 cm.
- The baby descends into the birth canal.
- Lasts 3-4 hours or longer.

Stage 3: Expulsion Phase (Delivery)

- The mother feels an urge to push.
- The baby is delivered after a few strong contractions.
- The placenta is expelled shortly after.

Stage 4: Recovery Phase (Postpartum Period)

- The uterus contracts to shrink back to its original size.
- The mother is monitored for bleeding and recovery.
- Lasts several hours.

Four Factors That Can Cause Labour Complications:

1. Maternal Factors:
- Hypertension
- Diabetes
- Preeclampsia
- Age over 35

2. Fetal Factors:
- Premature birth
- Macrosomia (large baby)
- Malpresentation (position of the baby in the uterus)

3. Placental Factors:
- Placenta previa (placenta covering the cervix)
- Placental abruption (placenta separating from the uterus)

4. Uterine Factors:
- Uterine rupture
- Inertia (lack of uterine contractions)