Natural childbirth, commonly known as vaginal delivery, is often recommended by doctors due to its numerous benefits. However, many expectant mothers lack sufficient understanding of the process, leading to misconceptions and avoidance of natural birth. Today, let's explore the stages and advantages of natural childbirth.
Benefits of Natural Childbirth
The fetus lives in amniotic fluid, with a certain amount of amniotic fluid and mucus present in its respiratory tract. During vaginal delivery, uterine contractions and compression through the birth canal expel amniotic fluid and mucus from the fetal lungs and airways. This reduces the risk of neonatal aspiration pneumonia caused by inhaling amniotic fluid or meconium.
Rhythmic compression and expansion of the fetal chest promotes the production of pulmonary surfactant in the lungs. This substance ensures the alveoli are elastic and easily expandable after birth.
During vaginal delivery, continuous compression of the fetal head stimulates the respiratory center, facilitating the establishment of normal breathing after birth.
Women who deliver vaginally recover significantly faster than those who undergo cesarean sections, allowing them more energy to care for their infants.
Women who deliver naturally also avoid many complications and sequelae associated with cesarean sections. Therefore, when conditions permit natural childbirth, follow your doctor's guidance and choose vaginal delivery—a natural, safe method beneficial for both mother and baby. □Zhao Xiao
Next, let's explore the process of natural childbirth.
The Process of Natural Childbirth
First Stage of Labor: During this stage, the doctor assesses labor progress by observing uterine contractions (intensity, frequency, duration), cervical dilation, and descent of the presenting part. Based on cervical dilation, descent indicators, and time parameters, a labor chart is plotted to visually track progress.Every 15 minutes, the doctor listens to the fetal heartbeat and monitors changes in the fetal heart rate displayed on the fetal monitor. They also observe the characteristics of the amniotic fluid after membrane rupture to assess for any signs of fetal hypoxia.Once the cervix is fully dilated (10 cm), the doctor guides the mother onto the delivery bed during a contraction break and positions her: feet braced against the bed's footrests, hips and knees flexed, thighs drawn toward the abdomen and abducted, and bowels and bladder emptied.
Third Stage:The third stage is a joyous moment for the mother as the baby is successfully delivered. The doctor will clear mucus from the newborn's nose and mouth, manage the umbilical cord, and after a routine examination, dress the baby and place them in the mother's arms. This is a tremendous comfort for the exhausted new mother and is clinically referred to as early skin-to-skin contact, which helps stabilize her emotions.This phase is brief. With the mother's cooperation, the doctor must deliver the placenta intact. Oxytocin is administered intravenously to promote uterine contractions and reduce postpartum hemorrhage. Simultaneously, the soft birth canal is carefully examined for any tears, and any episiotomy incisions are meticulously sutured.The concept of the fourth stage of labor now emphasizes the two-hour period following delivery of the baby and placenta. During this time, medical staff monitor the mother's vital signs—including blood pressure, pulse, respiration, and vaginal bleeding—at regular intervals and administer appropriate fluid replacement therapy. Mothers should fully relax, consume easily digestible foods, engage in early eye contact and physical bonding with their newborn, and initiate breastfeeding within half an hour of delivery.
Throughout the natural birth process, expectant mothers should actively cooperate with medical staff.