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As a mum to be, you’re probably wondering what to expect during the delivery of your little bundle of joy. It’s natural to be curious about the delivery process and the journey you’ll embark on.
Perhaps you want to know what happens during labour; or maybe you have concerns about complications that could arise during delivery. The team at Matilda Hospital are here to tell you more about the delivery process.
What to Expect During Labour
During labour, contractions will become more frequent and more intense. You may also experience other symptoms such as back pain, nausea, and vomiting. Doctors or midwives will monitor your progress during labour by checking your cervix for dilation and monitoring your baby’s heart rate.
It’s important to stay hydrated during labour by drinking water or clear liquids. You may also be allowed to eat small snacks to keep your energy levels up.
While each labour is unique, the process of a vaginal delivery follows four stages: First stage (cervix dilatation from 1cm-10cm), Second stage (pushing and delivery), Third stage (delivery of the placenta) and Fourth Stage (1-2 hours after the delivery to watch for any complications).
Labour progress can last 12 to 24 hours, or even more. You are encouraged to draw up a birth plan and discuss your preferences with your doctor and midwife.
Pain during childbirth is unique to each woman’s expectations and goals. There are different choices of pain relief, mobilisation, birth ball, warm pad, music, water bath, TENS machine and Entonox. Walking epidural is an effective method of labour pain relief. Mums are allowed to move, drink and eat.
The Matilda team believe in a parent-baby friendly approach and welcome the presence of partners during the big event. They offer a ratio of one midwife to one mother in active labour and during delivery.
Pushing and Delivery
When you reach the second stage, it’s time to push (when your cervix is fully dilated to 10 cm, you may feel pressure and the urge to push). Doctor and midwife will guide you on when and how to push. Pushing can take anywhere from a few minutes to several hours. . Midwives are experienced in different birth positions, such as lithotomy position, squatting position, all-four position and side lying position.
You won’t be separated from your baby during the first golden hour after birth, and uninterrupted skin-to-skin contact is allowed and even encouraged. The midwife will initiate breastfeeding support for you and your newborn. All the measurements, baby bath and vaccination will be arranged afterwards.
Potential Complications During Natural Birth
While natural birth is generally safe, there are potential complications that can occur. These complications include shoulder dystocia, fetal distress, and postpartum haemorrhage.
It’s important to discuss the potential complications of natural birth with your healthcare provider and have a plan in place for any emergencies that may arise.
What’s more, in this fast-growing world, we have upgraded safety standards. The Jada system is a new technology to safeguard against postpartum haemorrhage. The Matilda Hospital is the first hospital in Hong Kong to be trained to implement this new system. It is a Vacuum-Induced Uterine Tamponade Device, hwhich means that haemorrhage can be controlled as quickly as within 2 minutes, with no recurrence and very little blood loss after the treatment.
Understanding the maternity delivery process is crucial in preparing for your new baby’s arrival. From the early stages of pregnancy to the actual delivery, there are numerous factors to consider and decisions to make. It’s essential to have a clear understanding of the various delivery options available, including vaginal delivery and C-section, as well as the potential risks and benefits associated with each.
Remember that every pregnancy and delivery is unique. Don’t hesitate to ask questions, seek support from healthcare professionals like doctors and midwives, and advocate for yourself and your baby during your maternity journey.
The delivery process varies among hospitals, the above experience was based on Matilda Maternity.
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