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 birth of the baby. This stage involves active pushing and the descent of the baby through the birth canal. |
The Third Stage of Labour |
Starts with the birth of the baby and ends with the delivery of the placenta and any remaining fetal membranes, essential to prevent postpartum haemorrhage. |
Presentation |
Refers to the part of the fetus positioned over the cervical opening; may be cephalic (head first), breech (buttocks or feet first), or shoulder. |
Presenting Part |
The specific part of the fetus (e.g., occiput, brow, face, sacrum, or foot) first felt during a vaginal examination. |
Position of the Fetus |
Describes the orientation of the presenting part in relation to the mother's pelvis, such as occipitoanterior (OA) or occipitoposterior (OP) in 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 natural 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. |