Danger Signs of Labor
Posted by Healthfitline
On
Wednesday, October 24, 2012
Every woman reacts to labor, differently but on the other hand, a wide variations from what is expected in normal child birth may be a sign that the mother or the child may be experiencing some form of distress. Dangers signs of labor can be divided into two; the fetal danger signs and maternal danger signs of labor.
Fetal Danger Signs of Labor
Meconium Staining (green colored amniotic fluid) - Even though meconium staining is considered normal in breech presentation, due to pressure exerted on the fetus buttock. In normal labor and delivery, meconium staining can be associated with fetal distress (fetal lack of oxygen) and should be investigated further to know the root cause.
Low or High Fetal Heart Rate - Heart rate above 160 bpm (beats per minute) or what is known as fetal tachycardia and lower than 110 bmp or what is known as fetal bradycardia is also a possible sign of fetal distress.
Increased in Fetal Activity (hyperactivity) - Most fetus are usually quiet during labor and increase in the fetal movement may be a sign of a struggling fetus due to decrease in oxygen supply (hypoxia).
Fetal Acidosis - If blood is withdrawn from the scalp and taken for further analysis, it reveals blood acidosis (pH of less than 7.2) which is another sign of compromised fetal health.
Maternal Danger Signs of Labor
Falling or Rising Blood Pressure - In normal circumstances, the woman's blood pressure is expected to increase slightly during the second stage of labor as she bears down (pushes) but an increase in systolic pressure of more than 30mmHg and diastolic pressure of more than 15mmHg needs to be evaluated. In some instance, a decrease in blood pressure with presence of other signs and symptoms, such as an increasing pulse rate may be a sign of shock due to hemorrhage.
Contractions that Takes Longer than Expected - As expected, contractions increase in intensity with each stage of labor. If the contractions are becoming lesser as the labor progresses or lasting longer (more 90 seconds). This may be a sign of inertia (uterine not contracting anymore) and a c-section may be considered, if the problem persists.
Pathologic Retraction Ring (indentation across the abdomen) - This may be a sign of severe uterine stress and an impending uterine rupture. This is the reason why every woman should be observed for abdominal contours during labor.
Other danger signs of labor may be something to do with psychological well being of the mother. A woman may be very apprehensive, despite having clearly been told what to expect during labor. Using a different approach and encouraging the woman to share her concerns may help during this time.
0 comments:
Post a Comment