The final stage of labor occurs after your baby is born, as your uterus continues to contract to expel the placenta, also known as the afterbirth. Typically, the placenta is delivered between 5 to 15 minutes following the birth of your child.
Once your little one has made their entrance, your healthcare professional will monitor for any small contractions signaling that the placenta is separating from the uterine wall and is ready to be delivered. Gentle pressure through massage might be applied to your uterus, and the umbilical cord could be lightly tugged to assist in the process. After a few moments, the placenta will be delivered, and it’s normal for some women to experience shaking or shivering afterwards—this is generally not a cause for alarm.
Following the delivery of your baby and placenta, you will be observed for several hours to ensure that your uterus continues to contract properly and that there is no excessive bleeding. Most newborns are prepared to nurse shortly after birth; however, some may take a bit longer. If you plan to breastfeed, it’s highly encouraged to initiate nursing as soon as possible post-delivery. This not only fosters bonding but also aids in the contraction of the uterus and reduces the risk of bleeding.
In certain situations, you may receive oxytocin or other treatments to help your uterus contract effectively. Should you choose not to nurse or if your uterus is not firm, oxytocin will likely be administered to support uterine contraction—a common practice among many healthcare providers. Moreover, if you experience heavy bleeding, appropriate treatments will be initiated to address it.
For those who may have sustained a tear or undergone an episiotomy, a local anesthetic will be administered before suturing. Holding your newborn during this process can serve as a wonderful distraction, helping to ease any discomfort. If you’re experiencing significant shaking, don’t hesitate to ask your partner to hold your baby while you regain your composure.
If you received an epidural, a nurse anesthetist or anesthesiologist will come to remove the catheter from your back, a quick process that is typically painless.
Now that the hard work of labor is over, it’s time to relax and indulge in the joy of your new arrival!
Interested in learning more about related topics? Check out our post on retained placenta or visit WebMD for further information on insemination methods. For those considering at-home insemination options, explore Make a Mom for unique solutions, or learn how the process works on their How It Works page. Additionally, if you’re looking for sperm donor matching, visit Vegas Pregnancy for more information. For insights into building a family, check out Modern Family Blog.
In summary, the third stage of labor is a vital part of the childbirth process, involving the delivery of the placenta and subsequent monitoring of the mother’s health. Breastfeeding soon after birth can be beneficial, and various treatments may be provided to ensure a healthy recovery.