3 Labor and Delivery Free Online FlashCards

What defines the first stage of labor?

The first stage begins with regular contractions that cause cervical change and ends when the cervix is fully dilated at 10 cm.

At what dilation does active labor begin under ACOG's definition?

ACOG defines active labor as beginning at 6 cm dilation; slow progress before then does not by itself mean labor has arrested.

What features of contractions are commonly assessed?

Contractions are assessed for their frequency, duration, and whether the uterus relaxes between them.

How may fetal heart rate be monitored in low-risk labor?

For low-risk labor, intermittent Doppler checks or continuous electronic fetal monitoring may be appropriate. Risk factors and emerging concerns help guide the approach.

What does an epidural or combined spinal–epidural provide?

An epidural or combined spinal–epidural provides regional pain relief below the waist while the patient remains awake; blood pressure and other effects are monitored.

When might operative vaginal birth be considered?

Forceps or a vacuum device may assist birth when delivery needs to happen sooner or descent has stalled, if clinical conditions are appropriate and a trained clinician is available.

When is delayed cord clamping recommended, and for how long?

For vigorous term and preterm infants, delayed cord clamping for at least 30–60 seconds is recommended. Urgent maternal stabilization or newborn resuscitation may require a different approach.

What does immediate postpartum assessment check for?

Immediate checks include uterine firmness, bleeding, vital signs, and birth-related injury. These assessments can help identify uterine atony or postpartum hemorrhage promptly.

What is required to diagnose active-phase arrest?

Active-phase arrest requires no cervical change at 6 cm or more with ruptured membranes, despite adequate time and contractions or oxytocin.

What marks the beginning and end of the second stage?

The second stage begins at full cervical dilation and ends with delivery of the baby.

What happens in the third stage, and how can oxytocin help?

The third stage is delivery of the placenta after the baby is born. A uterotonic such as oxytocin helps the uterus contract and reduce bleeding.

What do external fetal-monitoring sensors record?

External electronic fetal monitoring uses sensors on the abdomen to record fetal heart rate and contraction timing.