9 phases of labor

Question 1

Engagement

Answer 1

• Widest part of presenting part passed successfully through the inlet

Question 2

Descent

Answer 2

-Latent phase: uterine contraction descents presenting part
- active phase: voluntary efforts by mother

Question 3

Flexion

Answer 3

• As head descends into narrower pelvis

Question 4

Internal rotation

Answer 4

• Only occurs when head is well flexed
• Sagittal suture lies in the AP diameter of pelvic putlet

Question 5

Extension

Answer 5

AKA crowning
- Escape from symphysis pubis
- distend the vulva

Question 6

Restitution

Answer 6

• After escaping vulva
• Head aligns with shoulder

Question 7

External rotation

Answer 7

• Shoulders have to rotate in the direct AP plane

Question 8

Delivery of Anterior shoulder

Answer 8

• Apply lateral traction
• Pull fetal head downwards
• Release anterior shoulder from beneath symphysis pubis

Question 9

Delivery of posterior shoulder

Answer 9

-Apply traction upwards