What is Pregnancy Labor?

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What starts labor?
We don't know exactly what starts labor, but we do know that it is an intricate interaction of the fetus, amniotic fluid and membranes. A newly discovered compound found in the amniotic fluid is believed to come from fetal urine. This compound combines with calcium to activate a chemical that is released from the membranes. This chemical is activated to prostaglandin. Prostaglandin has an important role in initiating labor. There is also an increase in the number of oxytocin receptors in the uterus. Oxytocin is a substance that is released by the brain to start contractions. This substance finds its way to the uterus via the blood. The receptors are waiting and contractions begin. A special substance that keeps the uterus relaxed appears to decrease as labor starts. Labor can be defined as repetitive uterine contractions that open the cervix and allow delivery of the baby, placenta and membranes. Labor is divided into three parts or stages.

STAGE	WHAT TAKES PLACE DURING THIS STAGE
1	Dilation (opening) and Effacement (thinning) of the cervix. See Diagram below.
2	Delivery of the Baby
3	Delivery of the Placenta

These diagrams show The First Stage of Labor Progression

ADDITIONAL RESOURCES THAT MAY HELP:

	Is this Really Labor?
	Who Makes the Decision?
	Induction of Labor
	Early Labor
	Real Life Guide to Labor and Delivery

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Excerpts from: The Family Pregnancy © 1995: MJ Bovo, The Family Pregnancy, Second Edition, currently in production, and Do You Have Any Questions? © 1995: MJ Bovo, are contained within this page. Reprints are not permitted under any circumstances. Please see Terms of Use for full expanation. Violations of the Copyright Code are taken seriously and appropriate action IS TAKEN AGAINST VIOLATERS.