Cold labor and open uterus
In some cases, during labor, the mother may find herself experiencing weak contractions, which may delay the progress of labor. Usually, this is noticeable when labor is insufficient and the uterus has not expanded enough to allow the baby to pass easily. In the first births, this situation may last up to 25 hours, as the uterus expands but does not reach the optimal degree for completing a natural birth.
In these situations, artificial shot may be recommended to speed up the process. However, if labor continues to be delayed despite this assistance, this may indicate the presence of other obstructions such as the large size of the baby, a contraction of the uterine canal, or a narrowing of the pelvic bones that does not match the size of the baby, making it difficult for its passage.
Cold shot: what is it?
Cold labor is considered the initial stage of the birth process, as this type of labor contributes to preparing the cervix to receive birth. The duration of cold labor varies from one pregnant woman to another, and may extend from several hours to several days, especially for women who are pregnant for the first time. While women who have previously given birth notice that the duration of cold labor in subsequent births is less long.
The difference between cold labor and real labor
The uterine dilation phase is characterized by contractions varying in strength and extent of the uterus’ dilation. During the mild contractions phase, the uterus expands to only a few centimeters. In the case of actual contractions, or what is known as active labor, the uterus expands by a significant amount, reaching 6 to 10 centimetres.
If you experience strong and frequent contractions that hinder your ability to move, and you feel stiffness in your legs and nausea, you may be going into active labor. These contractions may be accompanied by other signs, such as water leakage, if this has not happened in previous stages.
Know that the initial contractions or cold labor are a natural and temporary part that leads to the active labor phase, in which labor is completed.
Symptoms of cold snap
A cold snap is characterized by specific indicators that appear on the carrier, and this condition is usually less annoying. Among the symptoms that may accompany a cold snap are:
1. Feeling mild, irregular uterine contractions.
2. These contractions may last from one hour to an hour and a half, with rest periods ranging from 15 to 20 minutes.
3. Softness in the cervix.
4. Increase the diameter of the cervix to about 4 centimeters.
5. The appearance of mucous discharge from the vagina, which may be transparent, bloody, or pink in color.
6. Increased need to urinate more frequently than usual.
7. Lower back pain.
It is necessary for a pregnant woman to pay attention to the release of water from the uterus accompanying these symptoms, as this indicates the possibility of rupture of the bag of waters, and it is an indicator that requires immediate referral to the emergency department because it is considered a sign of imminent birth.
Tips to follow when cold
During the period of cold labor and uterine expansion, there are several measures that a pregnant woman can take to relieve symptoms and facilitate the birth process. Among these procedures are the following:
It is necessary to take care of proper nutrition, by eating nutritious foods and drinking plenty of fluids, to provide the body with the energy needed to face the challenges of childbirth.
Make sure you get plenty of rest and sleep. A body that gets adequate rest can handle the physical demands of childbirth better.
Do light exercises such as walking, especially during the day, to support the process of the fetus descending into the pelvis.
Keep your body position as straight as possible to help dilate the cervix and facilitate the fetus's descent.
Follow relaxation techniques such as breathing exercises, listening to soothing music, or taking a warm bath to help relax muscles and relieve stress.
If fetal water leaks, it is necessary to contact the doctor immediately before taking any steps such as bathing.
Industrial sterilization needle
An intravenous injection containing oxytocin is used to stimulate uterine contractions when the cervix is ready and tender. Contractions caused by this hormone are more intense and occur at a faster pace compared to normal contractions.
When do talcum suppositories take effect?
When using artificial vaginal suppositories to stimulate labor, the mother must rest lying on her side for half an hour after insertion, in order to ensure that the body absorbs the suppository completely without movement. After that, she can carry out her activities normally.
Vaccine suppositories usually start working within a period of time ranging from 6 to 24 hours, as signs of labor should begin to appear during this period. If contractions do not occur after 24 hours, it may be necessary to postpone delivery for another day or consider other options with the doctor, such as caesarean section, especially if there is a risk to the health of the fetus.
