Actions that accelerate childbirth: a description of the process, effective methods, reviews

2024 Author: Priscilla Miln | [email protected]. Last modified: 2023-12-16 00:21

For almost every woman, pregnancy raises many questions. How to prevent it from being interrupted? How to bear a he althy baby? How to eat right? What tests to take? Finally, it's time to ask the question of how to speed up labor at 39 weeks pregnant or beyond. There are many ways. We will consider the most popular of them in our article.

Oxytocin

This is a hormone that is produced in the brain. Initially, it is produced in the hypothalamus, after which it enters the pituitary gland, where it accumulates. Then it enters the blood. Oxytocin is responsible for the functions associated with lactation and childbirth. It activates the smooth muscles of the uterus, increases its contractility. In addition, it increases the secretion of prolactin - a hormone that "monitors" how milk is produced, has a good effect on lactation. Oxytocin enters the mammary glands and uterus through the bloodstream.

The menstrual cycle does not affect the amount of oxytocin in the body. But its level changes during pregnancy. The largest amount of oxytocinproduced in the last trimester, especially at night. Therefore, most often childbirth begins at night.

Artificially synthesized oxytocin is used in medicine. It is usually administered intravenously or intramuscularly. It is rarely taken orally, since when the drug is taken orally, the enzymes in the gastrointestinal tract are more rapidly deactivated.

Since this is one of the ways to speed up labor during pregnancy at 39 weeks, it is used to increase the contractile activity of the uterus if it is reduced during labor. After 3-5 minutes, the effect of an artificially produced hormone is expressed. It remains active for approximately 3 hours. Very little hormone passes through the placenta, so it has practically no effect on the baby.

With the help of oxytocin, the strength and duration of contractions increases, access to the uterus expands much more. In order to be able to enter it, the cervix must be prepared: shortened, softened according to the need, with a sufficiently open channel. After labor begins, the hormone begins to function. This is done if the cervix dilates 6 cm or more. In addition, the hormone can be used in cases where it is necessary to turn the baby (in a posterior occiput presentation) or when contractions are weakening.

If the membranes have ruptured on their own or are opened artificially, then the hormone oxytocin is injected.

Doctors believe that the drug "Oxytocin" shouldused only in medical practice. All obstetricians know how to speed up the opening of the cervix before childbirth. The method using "Oxytocin" is quite effective.

Activate childbirth so that they end faster, only with normal pregnancy. When complicated, this is done according to indications or at the request of the woman in labor. Of course, there should be no contraindications.

Indications

The drug "Oxytocin" can be used in such cases:

• To induce labor if there is a possibility of complications in the mother or baby. For example, in the absence (cessation) of contractions or when amniotic fluid breaks earlier than necessary.
• If a woman has progressive preeclampsia, which is considered a danger to both her and the child.
• If a pregnant woman has Rh-conflict.
• To re-increase or stimulate labor activity if it was reduced for any reason.
• Also, after childbirth, a hormone can be prescribed if the uterus closes very badly and for a long time after the end of the process, and also in order to prevent postnatal uterine bleeding.

However, after childbirth, injections of "Oxytocin" are not often given, since an artificial hormone can disrupt the production of a natural hormone in a woman's body. This can have a bad effect on lactation. It is preferable not to use Oxytocin, but to apply the baby to the breast more often. As a result, more milk will be produced, and the uterus will becomeshrink faster.

Contraindications

You can not use "Oxytocin" in such cases:

• Inability to give birth naturally. We are talking about situations where the volumes of the pelvis of the woman in labor and the head of the baby do not correspond; or the fetus is likely to have hydrocephalus; or found problems with the umbilical cord; or fetal presentation.
• Presence of a scar in the uterus.
• Suspicion of uterine rupture.
• Cervical immaturity.
• For tumors of the cervix, scars, atresia, which can make it difficult to open.
• When a woman has increased susceptibility to "Oxytocin".

The question of whether to use the drug in multiple pregnancies and uterine fibroids is also being comprehensively studied.

It is necessary to use the medicine in such quantities that the rate of cervical dilatation is the same as in standard, independent labor, as both for the woman in labor and for the baby, a significant intensification of labor is too dangerous. The use of the hormone begins with a few drops, then increase the dose to 10 drops per minute to achieve intense labor activity. If it is activated, the hormone is administered in minimal doses. If the portion is chosen incorrectly, the child's condition may worsen, the number of birth injuries increases, the probable premature detachment of the placenta, bleeding after childbirth, and uterine atony. In this case, the baby receives less oxygen, which can negatively affect his entire future life.

Some women believe he alth workers are abusing"Oxytocin" during childbirth, that without it the whole process may not be so painful, although somewhat longer. However, such opinions are not true.

Amniotomy

This is a rupture of the amniotic sac. This procedure is performed during pregnancy 40-42 weeks, a sharp aging of the placenta and a significant risk of hypoxia in the baby. In addition, an amniotomy can be performed if a woman is rapidly developing preeclampsia. The outflow of water stimulates the process and simplifies the condition of the woman in labor, preventing birth complications that can form in the event of a protracted process. In some cases, an indication for amniotomy is the threat of the formation of an Rhesus conflict.

The procedure is absolutely painless and not dangerous. However, only an experienced doctor should perform it. In the absence of medical indications, amniotomy is prohibited. A special hook is inserted into the vagina, catching the fetal bladder and opening it, which causes the outflow of amniotic fluid.

The breaking of the waters activates contractions. However, in some cases, they do not begin even after the described manipulation, and the anhydrous period should not last more than 12 hours. Many women in labor, fearing for the life of the child, demand that they be given Oxytocin injections. If you do an amniotomy without weighty evidence, the process can only be slowed down. The anterior waters, which are above the baby's head in the fetal bladder, occupy an area that delicately opens the cervix inside. Normally, water is shed only when the cervixalmost completely open and the baby is ready to be born.

Amniotomy can be performed only after the baby's head enters the small pelvis by pressing on the fetal bladder and the arteries on its surface. If the manipulation is done earlier, the risk of bleeding and prolapse of the umbilical cord, as well as infection, increases.

Intercourse

Sperm contains natural prostaglandin hormones that soften the cervix, and a woman's satisfaction during intercourse promotes her muscle contractions. Massaging the breasts (especially the nipples) increases the amount of oxytocin in the blood. It is important that a lady does not feel pain during intercourse, it is comfortable and pleasant.

If a couple wants absolutely nothing, they will need to refrain from sex. If we talk about nipple massage, then everything is not so simple. For the method to work, the procedure must be carried out three times a day for 10-20 minutes. Not everyone can endure such stimulation.

It is worth mentioning when you should not have sex. Contact protected by a condom is practically meaningless as an activator of labor activity. If the man has any sexually transmitted diseases, this method should not be used by the couple.

Physical activity

Another way to speed up labor after 36 weeks is physical activity. A long walk on the street, wet cleaning and climbing stairs are especially popular methods of natural labor stimulation among expectant mothers.activities. Walking is considered the most favorable method.

During this process, the baby puts pressure on the cervix, which forces it to begin to open. Other active influences also contribute to this. But the expectant mother needs to beware of extreme stress. They should be strong and light.

The method works only when the cervix has already begun to prepare for labor, soften and smooth out. It is difficult for a woman who wants to give birth faster to resist intense exercise. However, cleaning the apartment and conquering the upper floors without an elevator do not belong to them. Such exposure can provoke early placental abruption!

With preeclampsia and other complications of the child's waiting period, with indications for surgical intervention, for up to 40 weeks of pregnancy, with chronic diseases not associated with pregnancy, this method is prohibited.

How to speed up the onset of labor at home

If you do not want to go to the clinic to stimulate labor, you can use folk methods, which also activate labor activity. We have already noted above that labor can be stimulated by massaging the nipples. Such exposure activates the release of the hormone oxytocin, which gives rise to contractions. It is necessary to massage the breast gently and carefully so as not to damage it and not to infect. Here are some more tips:

• A bowel movement can also help induce labor.
• Some scents activate labor, like roses and jasmine.
• Beets and parsley are foods that can also bring childbirth closer. Currant and raspberry juice has the same property.
• One of the common folk ways to stimulate labor is to take a laxative. This must be done before bed.

Let's take a look at what other foods can help your baby be born sooner.

Pineapple

This overseas fruit is another way to speed up labor during pregnancy. It contains bromelain, which can facilitate and stimulate childbirth.

Eat fresh pineapple, drink juice, or make a fruit smoothie with this juicy, delicious "medicine".

Spicy

Some people claim that spicy food is a great way to speed up labor. Mexican dishes or food seasoned with hot chili peppers have every chance of helping a woman in labor to quickly get rid of her burden. Be careful when using similar products, as in the late stages of pregnancy, such food can provoke indigestion.

However, many doctors believe that the use of spicy foods can complicate childbirth due to the capsaicin contained in such products. It affects the production of natural endorphins, which can help relieve pain.

Licorice

This method of speeding up labor at 40 weeks is known to many. Look for licorice grass (licorice) in pharmacies with a lowentry of glucose. Also, this plant is part of many medicines. Licorice can cause intestinal cramps and diarrhea.

Garlic

Eating a few cloves of garlic can cause intestinal cramps. After emptying the intestinal tract, the baby may sink lower. In this case, the child will provoke contractions of the uterus itself and its cervix, preparing the woman's body for childbirth.

Cook food with garlic if too much garlic doesn't give you indigestion.

Fiber

Fiber-rich foods can help you avoid constipation and are a means to speed up labor. If you have trouble passing stools, your intestinal tract or rectum will be full, taking up the space your baby needs to descend to the very bottom of your belly. Eat plenty of fruits and vegetables during the last few weeks of your pregnancy. In addition, eating prunes and other dried fruits can help clear the intestines.

Raspberries

Drink from these fragrant berries strengthens and tones the uterus, which can help with the contraction of its muscles. Brew a cup of tea by pouring one bag of the product into 100 ml of boiling water. Let stand 3 minutes. Let it cool and drink.

Use fresh raspberries in summer. For a cup of boiling water, it is enough to take 1 tbsp. l. berries. They are also good to eat fresh.

Cumin tea

Another way to speed up labor at home is to use the following drink. Brew cumin seedsto induce childbirth. Enough for a cup of boiling water 1 tsp. funds.

Add some sugar or honey to your drink to neutralize the bitterness.

Remember: when resorting to folk methods that speed up childbirth, you need to think about their safety for you and your baby. Please consult with your doctor before doing any stimulation.

Reviews

Women in their reviews report that means that accelerate childbirth also affect the psychological state, especially in cases where the water has broken prematurely or the contractions have stopped. Many women report experiencing intense anxiety about their baby when they experience these complications during childbirth. "Oxytocin" very quickly caused contractions and accelerated labor. According to women, this is the advantage of the drug. Its disadvantages are that women in labor begin to experience unbearable pain, nausea, and sometimes vomiting.

Reviews about amniotomy are generally positive. Women note that the procedure is almost painless, but only an experienced specialist should carry it out. Otherwise, negative consequences are possible for both mother and baby.

Every woman has her own opinion about folk methods. Some were helped by long walks, others by a couple of bars of chocolate, and others by a pineapple.