Before birth, the fetus takes a starting position in order to safely pass through the mother’s birth canal when the time comes to be born. For most babies, this position is head down, lengthwise along the mother's body.

Approximately 5% of children remain in breech , which can be in several variations, for example, “sitting on the butt” with legs crossed, or buttocks down, and legs straightened and extended along the body.

Very rarely, the position of the fetus before birth remains transverse or oblique, so the baby will not be able to be born, and if the baby stubbornly does not turn correctly, the birth is carried out by cesarean section.

The movement of the fetus before birth can tell you how it is lying in your body, without any ultrasound. On last weeks pregnancy, you can easily guess the body parts of the fetus by stroking your tummy. Most women feel the smooth back of the baby on the left, and the right half of the abdomen gets all the pokes and kicks of the baby, because most babies are waiting for birth in the first position, when the back is slightly turned to the left.

Fetal activity before birth with big amount movements in the upper abdomen indicate a cephalic presentation, and if movements are more noticeable in the lower abdomen, the baby is probably in a breech presentation.

At 33-34 weeks of pregnancy, using a screening ultrasound, the doctor determines how the baby lies in the uterus. In most cases, this presentation remains until birth, but now the position of the fetus before birth is often clarified again using ultrasound in the last weeks.

However, even during a simple examination of a pregnant woman, a gynecologist will never make a mistake with its presentation, because it is easily determined by the methods of external obstetric examination.

If your baby still has not turned head down, and you are 38-40 weeks and giving birth very soon, do not be upset in advance, there is still a chance that everything will change until the very end. Sometimes correct position

Now you need to listen carefully to everything that is happening inside you; of course, not only the position, but also the behavior of the fetus before childbirth is important. The way your baby moves speaks volumes about how he is feeling. Typically, children behave calmer in the last weeks; active movement of the fetus before birth can signal its hypoxia. The cessation of movements can also indicate danger. If something worries you, be sure to tell your doctor about it.

Position of the baby before birth. Natural birth or caesarean section. The head position facilitates the movement of the baby through the birth canal. Typically, 95 percent of babies are placed in the head position at birth, namely, head down, chin resting on the chest, buttocks up, legs and arms folded and pressed to the body.

This is the most natural position, as it facilitates the movement of the child through the birth canal and, from a medical point of view, the head position is the best for birth, since the head opens the way for the body and makes it easier to push the child out.
Natural birth or caesarean section: what does it depend on?

Cervical position of birth, when the baby is placed in the cephalic position, just before birth, the birth is usually natural and occurs through the vaginal route. However, the baby may move into other positions inside the uterus, which may require delivery by caesarean section. Thus, the child may be in a position with the buttocks forward, in a transverse position, which does not allow normal delivery through the vaginal route.

The final position taken by the child before birth will not be known until the last moment. Although in recent weeks, the gynecologist can find out the position of the baby before birth using ultrasound through echography, but everything can change in the last hour. It is known that a child in the ninth month of pregnancy, having little space inside the uterus, continues to move. Amniotic fluid allows the baby to change position quite easily, although due to its greater weight and height, by this period its activity decreases, especially in the last weeks of pregnancy. In addition, when contractions and labor begin, many babies who were guided with their buttocks forward or in another position assume the head position during childbirth. Therefore, until the last moment it is not completely known whether the child will be born naturally, via the vaginal route, or via cesarean section.

Statistics prove that the majority of children, 95%, are placed in the cephalic position during birth, and those who take incorrect positions are usually in the minority. Circumstances that interfere with the natural position of the child at birth are immature labor and the birth of twins. In the case of premature babies, they are usually not yet positioned because they will be born before their due time. In twin pregnancies, the babies are usually positioned, one in the cephalic position and one in the breech position, to make optimal use of the space inside the uterus.
What positions can a baby take before birth?

Head position

The head position is the natural position that 95% of children take at birth. This position facilitates the mother's labor efforts, because moving head forward, the crown of the baby first appears, which has a slightly smaller diameter for the head to exit, in turn, it opens the way through the birth canal for the rest of the body. Childbirth usually develops via the vaginal route, with some exceptions: if the baby's head was too large to pass through the mother’s pelvic bones, or if there is some reason that would prevent this, such as heart disease in the mother, insufficiently wide birth canal...

Head not bowed enough.

One in 100 children usually spontaneously assumes this position during birth. This is a variant of another rotation of the head position; the baby’s chin is not pressed to the chest, and this makes it difficult for him to pass through the birth canal. Birth can take place via the vaginal route, but it will be slower due to the forceful pressure of the skull on the mother's sacrum, which causes back pain in the mother.

Facing forward.

This is a very rare position of the baby during childbirth, occurring in only 0.3% of cases and usually occurs when there is an abnormal structure of the uterus. We are talking about a variant of the head position in which the child is positioned head down, but instead of the crown, the face or forehead is first shown from the birth canal. In this position, the child's head is slightly elevated, which makes it difficult to exit. Due to the fact that the head is not pressed to the chest, its diameter is too large when passing through the pelvic bones. Caesarean section is usually the best choice in such cases.

Breech presentation.

The gluteal position is the most common among other possible alternatives to the cephalic position. In this case, the buttocks, legs or both are simultaneously exposed from the birth canal. Children usually take this position when the umbilical cord is too short, the placenta is in the lower part instead of being in the high part of the uterus, or the uterus has an abnormal structure. In most of these cases, a caesarean section is usually used. However, if the mother has given birth before, has a wide pelvis and the baby's head is small, she may give birth via the vaginal route.

Transverse position. This position occurs in only 0.4% of pregnancies. In this case, the child appears in a horizontal or transverse position. Usually, it is necessary to resort to caesarean section, since birth through the vaginal route becomes impossible. However, during the onset of labor contractions, such babies turn over and usually assume a head position. For this reason, it is preferable to wait until the last moment before deciding whether to give birth by Caesarean section.

Every mother is interested in knowing what her baby is doing in the womb. When it is still small and freely floating in the uterine cavity, its position can change constantly. Of course, everyone’s activity is different, some babies sleep more, while others are constantly spinning. But towards the end of the term it becomes more and more difficult for him to turn over, and as a result he must be placed head down. It is this position that provides physiological correct birth, the easiest and simplest. Today we want to talk about how to independently determine in the stomach.

What methods does an obstetrician have?

Of course, the doctor can determine the location of the baby much more accurately. The easiest way to do this is based on ultrasound results. At any stage, the specialist performing the ultrasound will immediately see the baby’s posture. However, it is recommended to carry out this examination no more than three times during pregnancy, except in emergency situations.

When talking about how to independently determine the position of the baby in the abdomen, many women refer to the experience of gynecologists who palpate the abdomen for more than 28 weeks. But we must emphasize that the doctor knows exactly what he is trying to determine. Usually, after such an examination, the doctor can approximately say:

• A child lies along or across.
• What is located below, near the fundus of the uterus, the head or legs.

Finally, the last method of determining presentation is used when the cervix is ​​slightly opened. This may be the first stage of labor or the threat of termination of pregnancy for more than 22 weeks. In this case, the doctor can use his fingers to feel the parts of the fetal body that are closest to the exit from the uterus.

At what point does the issue of presentation become relevant?

Since it is not so easy to independently determine the position of the baby in the stomach, you should not devote Special attention up to 32 weeks. At this time, his position in the uterus is unstable, the baby turns and turns over. After the 32nd week, it takes a static position, in which it will pass through the birth canal. Now, until the birth, he will only move his arms and legs, as well as unbend and turn his head to the sides. Obeying the force of gravity, he turns head down. The back is turned to the left and looks outward, towards the front wall of the abdomen. The face is on the contrary, turned to the right and inward.

Preparing for independent research

And we move on to the most interesting thing: how to independently determine the position of the baby in the stomach. First of all, a woman should remember the moment when the child is most active. At this time, you should sit comfortably on the sofa and listen to your feelings. Usually the child will be unhappy that the mother is not moving and will begin to move with particular zeal. If, on the contrary, he is quiet, then you can provoke his activity by lightly patting his stomach with your palm.

Let's start observing

So how to determine the position of the baby in the stomach yourself? Listen to your feelings. If the baby is positioned head up, which is typical for early date, then the tremors will be felt below. This often frightens young mothers a little: they believe that the baby is located very low and there is a threat of miscarriage. There's really nothing like it. But since it is quite difficult to independently determine the position of the baby in the stomach at 28 weeks of pregnancy, due to its frequent changes, it is better to consult a doctor. He will clear your doubts.

Atypical fetal position

Time passes, the 31st week has arrived, which means that very soon the baby should decide on his permanent location. Most often it is vertical, then the mother does not experience discomfort. Therefore, when talking about how to independently determine the position of the baby in the stomach at 31 weeks, you need to note the shape of the protruding “belly”.

If it has become unusually wide, then perhaps the baby has rolled over across the mother's belly. In this case, severe pain is often observed. Sharp, painful sensations arise due to the movement of the legs, and strong pressure due to the extension of the head. Even just stretching, the child puts a lot of pressure on internal organs. At the same time, his knees or feet can be easily felt.

Special exercises

At this stage, the baby should already have decided on his position, but he may still be able to roll over, since his size still allows this to happen. How can I get him to do this?

The answer is obvious: you need to shift the center of gravity, that is, turn the mother over. You don’t need to stand on your head for this; just place a thick mattress at an angle (for example, on the edge of a sofa) and lie on it with your head down so that your hips are higher than your head. It is recommended to lie like this several times a day for 20-30 minutes. At the same time, it is advised to talk to the child and stroke the belly clockwise.

Normal presentation

It is also difficult to confuse it with something else. Therefore, when talking about how to independently determine the position of the baby in the stomach at 35 weeks, we again suggest listening to your feelings. If you feel strong pressure in the lower abdomen, a frequent urge to urinate and defecate, then most likely the baby is lying correctly and the head is pressing on the intestines and bladder. At the same time, the liver experiences constant blows from its legs. In this case, there is no need to worry, the child is lying correctly.

We help you turn over

If the period is already long (34 weeks or more), and the baby has still not taken a normal position, then it is too late to simply lie upside down. Now it is recommended to take positions that are uncomfortable for your baby as often as possible. Go to sleep on your side or stomach.

The uterus and waters protect the baby well, and natural discomfort will force him to move. Speaking about how to independently determine the position of the baby in the stomach at 37 weeks, you should remember the fact that by this time you will undergo a mandatory ultrasound, which will show whether your efforts were effective. If the child is still in the wrong position, it can be recommended to rock the pelvis. To do this, actively rock your pelvis for 10 minutes. This should be done 2-3 times a day. At the same time, be sure to stroke the belly and gently push the child clockwise.

Do not forget that all recommendations should be given by your attending physician. You can feel your belly yourself, play with your baby and perform special exercises as directed, but do not try to diagnose yourself, much less take any measures to change the situation. In your position, the control of an experienced doctor is much more important than your curiosity.

However, communication between your baby and his mother is very useful, so spend as much time as possible playing games, so you will establish a good connection with your baby even before he is born.

The activity of a child before birth is an important sign of his life. The frequency and nature of movements throughout pregnancy changes, from subtle movements to very noticeable tremors. Every expectant mother listens to the baby's movements, trying to understand if everything is okay. We’ll talk about how the baby will behave before giving birth in our article.

Changes in baby's behavior before birth

At the beginning of the third trimester of pregnancy, the baby is most active - after all, he still has enough room for acrobatic tricks, but before the end of gestation, the movements of the fetus are increasingly constrained by amniotic fluid. However, the baby continues to actively grow and develop.

In such conditions, the baby no longer moves so actively, but his kicks are strong and confident. Sometimes the baby can even demonstrate his dissatisfaction with the reduction of free space. Future mom can feel every movement of the child, because there is almost no room left for turns and turns.

Fetal position

The next important stage for the fetus is its movement towards the cervix. The child's movements become

translational-rotational. So, the fetus makes its way to the cervix, it is ready to take the starting position. Usually, the baby lies head down.

The next important stage for the fetus is its movement towards the cervix

Many mothers notice that the fetus has descended into the pelvis; during this period, it becomes easier for women to breathe because the baby does not put pressure on the diaphragm, but it becomes more difficult to walk.

Before giving birth, many mothers notice that the fetus has sunk into the pelvis

The number of movements is an important sign

After the 37th week of pregnancy, many pregnant women notice that there are fewer movements and the fetus seems to calm down. Sometimes there are periods of excessive activity followed by periods of calm.

Of course, each pregnancy is different for each woman, but on average, at 38-39 weeks of pregnancy, a woman should feel 10 movements of the baby within 6 hours, which turns out to be 1 - 2 movements per hour.

It's okay if your baby is not that active, because he needs to gain strength, he can sleep, so he won't move even once in an hour. When he wakes up, he will definitely remind his mother of himself with a slight push. Some babies, on the contrary, are extremely active. This is usually due to the mother’s strong anxiety, which is passed on to the child. That is why try to remain calm, because stress is not necessary for you or your baby.

If the baby does not move for 12-16 hours, or, on the contrary, is very active, contact your doctor, because this activity may be a consequence of hypoxia. If the baby in the last weeks of pregnancy began to behave calmly and became quiet, this means that it’s time for you to get ready for maternity hospital

. Do not go far from home unaccompanied; you should forget about long trips.

Video guide to pregnancy. 40 weeks. Life before birth

In this video you can see how the baby behaves in the last weeks of pregnancy. Experienced doctors will tell you how to distinguish false contractions from real ones, and advise how to behave when labor has begun. In addition, you will see how the birth process goes.

In conclusion, I would like to remind you that each body is individual, so you should not worry too much if your baby behaves somehow differently than the baby of your pregnant friend. However, continue to monitor your baby's movements and if you have any concerns, do not hesitate to consult your doctor.

WHEN THE ABDOMEN DOWNS ON THE EVE OF BIRTH (PHOTO) The approach of childbirth is characterized by numerous changes in the body of a pregnant woman

, which indicate their close beginning. Expectant mothers are increasingly listening to themselves and noticing new sensations and changes. Child before childbirth moves much less than during pregnancy

. Its activity is reduced because there is little free space left in the mother’s belly. A pregnant woman's mood may change, her appetite may worsen, and contractions may begin. . Often before childbirth, the stomach hurts and becomes hard. Women often ask if their belly goes down. Of course, the real sign that the birth of a child is imminent is precisely . In fact, when the stomach drops before childbirth, it means that the uterine fundus has prolapsed. Sometimes on the eve of childbirth, women may experience bleeding . It can be used to judge the release of the mucus plug.

Belly before childbirth, as can be seen in the photo, and its lowering in all women occurs individually - in different terms and in different ways. Many primiparous women experience prolapse 2-4 weeks before labor begins. When a woman gives birth again, her stomach drops a few days before giving birth , as shown in the photo, or does not fall down right up to the birth itself.

Characteristic signs of abdominal drooping before childbirth:

- disappearance of heartburn and belching, which were so painful during pregnancy;

Easier breathing because the uterus is no longer putting pressure on the diaphragm;

The appearance of discomfort when walking and sitting;

Increased urge to go to the toilet on the eve of childbirth;

The presence of unpleasant pain in the perineum and pelvis.

Some pregnant women do not notice these sensations. The most in a simple way understand if you have drooping belly before childbirth (photo above), is to place your palm between your stomach and chest. If it fits there, abdominal prolapse has probably already occurred before childbirth, and you will soon go to the maternity hospital.

HOW TO UNDERSTAND THAT CONTRACTIONS HAVE STARTED BEFORE BIRTH

Pregnant women before childbirth are usually very afraid of the onset of contractions and the process of childbirth itself. It is very important to understand how contractions begin.

Cervix of a woman during pregnancy tightly closed. At the very beginning, when contractions begin before childbirth, the uterus is also ready to open - its throat is smoothed out, expanding to 10-12 centimeters in diameter. During contractions, intrauterine pressure increases as the uterus begins to shrink in size. This leads to rupture of the amniotic sac , as a result of which amniotic fluid flows out.

How do you know if you're going into labor? At first you will feel some discomfort in the abdomen, hip joints and lower back. At first, contractions before childbirth will last only a few seconds, and you will not notice any particular painful sensations. The time interval between contractions will be about 10-12 minutes, sometimes 7-8 minutes. All these sensations will no longer make you question how to understand that the first contractions have begun.

Then the contractions will become stronger, more frequent and painful, and even with a shorter interval. This will be the next phase. Thus, contractions will reach a point where they last about 2 minutes, and the next one occurs 60 seconds later. If such moments occur, you should be prepared for the fact that labor will begin soon, in 30-40 minutes.

How to behave before childbirth? After all, the most painful and final stage of labor begins. Since during childbirth a pregnant woman has a high position of the diaphragm, she can only breathe from the upper parts of the lungs. However, each breath should be accompanied by an infusion of air into the lungs, filling the free upper part chest. Exhale carefully and easily. In no case is it recommended to inhale air forcefully or exhale in jerks. To relieve labor pain, you can use self-massage without resorting to analgesics.

Apply pressure from the front on the points along the thighs, and massage with slightly outstretched vibrating thumbs. Lying on your side with your knees slightly bent is the most comfortable position for a light massage of the lower half of the abdomen while maintaining the correct inhalation-exhalation rhythm. Stroking is done with your fingertips - from the middle of the abdomen to the sides.


Once labor begins, some pregnant women vomiting may occur. It does not last long and no treatment is required. As soon as vomiting stops, rinse your mouth with water and drink 1-2 sips of water, but no more, so as not to cause new nausea .
The second stage of labor is characterized by the transfer of women in labor to the delivery room. You can control the pushing yourself under the supervision of a midwife and doctor. There will be an unpleasant feeling of strong bloating. The overall pain of pushing depends on what your posture is and whether you push correctly.

It is necessary to completely relax and breathe deeply - while inhaling without delay. The strongest attempts are considered to be those when the fetal head passes through the pelvis. When the fetal head appears, the midwife provides assistance to the woman in labor so that she does not tear the muscles of the perineum. Follow all professional instructions of the midwife absolutely precisely. Remember that the baby's head will be removed from the genital tract when there is no pushing. Therefore, it must be contained by relaxing and breathing only through the mouth without any delay in inhalation.

HOW DOES THE MUCOUS PLUG REMOVE BEFORE BIRTH?

The removal of a plug before childbirth is very individual. However, this may not happen earlier than 3-4 weeks before birth. She often leaves 7 days before labor begins.

What does a mucus plug look like? It consists of a dense clot of mucus (photo link) , which closes the entrance to the uterus. No infection can penetrate there, so the baby is safe.

How the mucus plug comes off before childbirth ? You may feel clumps of mucus coming out. The mucus plug before childbirth (photo) looks beige, pinkish or whitish-yellowish. Often discharge may contain blood or with streaks, since the cervix, expanding, causes the bursting of small capillaries. A small amount of blood on the eve of labor is quite normal. No need to panic. Remember that this is the mucus plug coming off. Just take a closer look.

The mucus plug does not look like ordinary discharge. It looks more dense. An option is possible when it comes out in large volume at once. From the fact how the plug comes out just before childbirth, for example, little by little, gradually, this may not be noticed, or it may be confused with discharge.

Most cases where the mucus plug comes off before childbirth occurs while using the toilet or showering. However, if the characteristic plug came off before childbirth while you were dressed, you can definitely see this mucus on the sheet or underwear.

The removal of the plug sometimes occurs directly during childbirth.

If the plug comes away, and then the water or contractions come out, it means you need to go to the maternity hospital urgently. You should also go there if there is bleeding after the plug comes out. You should visit a doctor if the plug comes off too early, 14 days before the due date, especially if it is bright red.

The plug should not be accompanied by bleeding. It only comes in dark color.

AT WHAT TIME DOES THE CERVIX DILATED BEFORE BIRTH IN FIRST- AND MULTIPARENTS?

Before giving birth, every pregnant woman's reproductive organ reaches its maximum size. The shape of the uterus (belly) before the upcoming birth may be different. If the fetus occupies the most unfavorable position and lies transversely, this means that the uterus before birth is stretched in width and not in length. In this situation, as a rule, a caesarean section is performed according to indications.

With a longitudinal presentation of the fetus, the shape of the abdomen acquires the correct shape oval shape. An irregularly shaped belly occurs when the child deviates to the side.

During an external examination, the midwife analyzes the muscle tone of the uterus . The wall of the uterus is normally soft in a pregnant woman. However, when increased tone she's hard. Hypertonicity of the uterus (increased tone) is one of the threats of termination of pregnancy. Increased tone can occur at any stage of pregnancy. The sensations will be pain in the lower back and lower abdomen. They can be minor, very strong or sipping. Signs of pain depend on the intensity and duration of uterine hypertonicity before childbirth, as well as on the pain threshold sensitivity of a pregnant woman . With short-term increased tone, the sensation of pain or heaviness in the lower abdomen is slight.

The cervix begins to dilate before labor. This is the first stage of childbirth. It opens due to tension during contractions, when the muscles of the uterus contract.

The maturity of the cervix depends on the production necessary hormones in the body of a pregnant woman, namely prostaglandins. They have a complex impact on immune system, on the sensation of pain, on the regulation of blood pressure, the secretion of gastric juice, blood clotting and contractile activity of the uterus.

Professionals should monitor when the cervix begins to dilate before labor. Mothers in labor are required to fulfill all their professional requirements.

In primiparous women, the internal os of the cervix first begins to open, taking on the shape of a funnel, and then the external os begins to stretch. Harbingers of labor in multiparous women are the opening of the external os of the uterus by one finger. This occurs at the end of pregnancy , and it is easier for them to dilate the cervix. The internal and external pharynx begin to open almost simultaneously.

Repeated births, as a rule, are faster and easier for women than the first. In order to give birth to a child without ruptures and without tearing the cervix, you need to listen to and follow the advice of gynecologists who deliver the baby. The preservation of the perineum and birth canal of the woman in labor depends 80% on them. To avoid an episiotomy during childbirth, the gynecologist must lubricate the vaginal area and cervix with a special gel or oil, then straighten it and the folds. At the next stage, the doctor teaches the correct pushing. Don't neglect these tips.

Special differences in the precursors of labor in primiparous and multiparous women not available. A reliable determination of the onset of labor can only be made by monitoring the dynamics of cervical dilatation.

Harbingers of childbirth can be, for example, a change in mood. Often a woman exhibits the so-called “nesting” instinct. This is when a woman begins to clean everything, wash, sew, tidy up. In a word, prepare for the long-awaited meeting of the long-awaited baby.

Signs of the onset of labor are changes in motor activity the fruit itself. The child begins to either calm down or, on the contrary, become very active. The baby begins to choose a rhythm and also prepare for the right moment of his birth.

From the female womb, 1-3 days or several hours before the onset of labor, mucus is sometimes released that resembles egg white. It looks brown, very similar to menstrual spotting. The discharge may also be streaked with small amounts of blood.

Before giving birth, a woman in labor may experience a noticeable change in appetite towards a decrease.

A woman's bowel movements can be a harbinger of labor. A pregnant woman goes to the toilet often. The chair is much larger than usual. The urge to urinate will also become more frequent as pressure on the bladder increases.

On the eve of childbirth, a woman may lose some weight - approximately 1-2 kilograms.

The lowering of the abdomen occurs due to the child’s preparation for “exit” - he lies with the presenting part at the entrance of the small pelvis. The fundus of the uterus at this time deviates anteriorly due to a slight decrease in the tone of the woman’s abdominal muscles.

It becomes easier for a pregnant woman to breathe because pressure is relieved from the stomach and diaphragm due to the baby moving down.

As the baby moves down, the woman may begin to experience pain in the lower back. , in the lumbar region.

Sometimes, the onset of labor is characterized by the appearance of dull, incomprehensible pain in the lower abdomen or lower back. There are also so-called girdle pains - when both the lower back and the stomach hurt.

The most reliable sign of the onset of labor is the presence of constant contractions in a woman in labor. . At this time, the uterine muscles begin regular contractions with a steady rhythm.

Sometimes the amniotic sac may leak before birth . But it can also burst suddenly. In this case, all the water may leak out at once. If amniotic fluid has leaked, you must urgently go to the maternity hospital.

HOW TO ELIMINATE PAIN BEFORE CHILDREN (BUT SPA, BUSKOPAN SUPPORTS, Belladonna SUPPORTS, OIL, ENEMA, SANATION)

Pregnant women are recommended a special diet before giving birth to help the digestive system prepare for labor. Vegetable oil before childbirth has a beneficial effect on the stretching and contraction of the uterus. In addition to everything else, dishes with vegetable oil enrich the body with vitamin E and are a means of preventing hemorrhoids and possible ruptures.

Women must attend preparatory classes during pregnancy, where they will be taught how to breathe correctly , will introduce you to adaptive comfortable posture, as well as perform effective exercises (including the Kegel method for intimate muscles ) to reduce pain.

Pain, which sometimes causes unpleasant moments for a woman before childbirth, is a harbinger of labor. On the pain The following factors may influence the normal birth:

health status and age of the woman in labor;

physiological and psycho-emotional preparation for childbirth;

menstrual irregularities recorded before pregnancy;

size and position of the fetus;

premature birth;

woman's pain threshold level;

individual anatomical features of the pelvis, muscular, hormonal systems, etc.

False contractions are a typical first cause of pain before labor. This process is also often called training. At this time, the muscles of the uterus begin to contract, becoming toned for only one minute. Thus, the woman’s cervix prepares for childbirth. These sensations appear after 20 weeks , but they do not cause severe pain.

False contractions are intended to prepare a woman’s body for labor. They are usually not intense and are concentrated in the lower abdomen.

Painful symptoms before childbirth that need special attention to understand signs of the onset of labor:

constant contractions of the uterus;

frequency of pain recurrence with a break of 10-20 minutes;

reducing the gap between contractions to 2-3 minutes;

rapid relaxation of the uterus in between contractions;

the nature of the pain is widespread, pressing and encircling.

Nagging pain before childbirth signals the imminent birth of a baby. They start at 33-34 weeks. This process is caused by stretching of ligaments and muscles. In other words, preparation for labor. The pain is localized in the lower abdomen . This is due to false contractions and the preparatory period, when the uterus acquires tone and the cervix shortens and becomes smaller. Pain in the lower abdomen is therefore adaptation period, which helps prepare muscles, ligaments and tissues for normal labor. You should not dramatize pain, since they are explained by simple physiological stretching of the uterus and displacement of nearby organs.

Cause of pelvic pain before childbirth is an increase in the tone of the spiral uterine ligaments. Such sensations are especially common in pregnant women who have a history of pelvic muscle distortion (a twisted pelvis). The ligaments that attach the uterus to the pelvis are stretched unevenly as a result of sacroiliac displacement, thereby causing nagging pain in the pelvic and lumbar region.

Chest pain accompany almost the entire period of pregnancy. This is normal. Over the course of nine months, the mammary glands undergo changes. The most noticeable breast growth is after 30 weeks, when glandular tissue grows rapidly. The capsules of the mammary glands stretch greatly, as does the skin of a pregnant woman. Chest pain is associated with this.

Back pain before birth is associated with the baby moving into a natural prenatal presentation - head down. The fetus puts pressure on the lower back, and connective tissue the sacroiliac zone is stretched. The lower back hurts mainly during contractions.

Hormonal dysfunctions in women provoke expansion and relaxation of the pelvic joints and intervertebral ligaments.

Due to a large belly, physiological displacement occurs forward of the body's center of gravity. It leads to compensatory tension in the back muscles. At this time, posture may be disrupted and curvature of the spine may appear.

Factors that cause pain in the perineum before childbirth:

increased weight puts stress on the lumbosacral region, which leads to pain in the perineum;

increased production of the hormone relaxin, which controls the elasticity of interosseous joints;

gradual expansion of the pelvic bones (pubic joints) in preparation for labor.

To prepare the birth canal for the passage of the fetus, doctors prescribe No-shpa before childbirth. However, it should not be taken without the prescription of a specialist. No-spa is contraindicated in case of hepatic, renal and isthmic-cervical insufficiency. Theoretically, it sometimes causes premature onset of labor, since it accelerates the dilatation of the cervix.

It is usually prescribed by specialists along with other drugs, more often with suppositories. This there may be Buscopan candles, Papaverine and candles Krasavka. Experts assure that before childbirth, No-shpa can help determine the authenticity of contractions. If you are not sure whether these contractions are real or false, then you can take two tablets of No-shpa . If the pain becomes more frequent and intensifies, it is recommended to go to the maternity hospital.

Buscopan suppositories will have a stimulating and relaxing effect on the muscles of the cervix. Thus, they contribute to its disclosure. Typically, they are prescribed to prepare the cervix and speed up the development of the first stage of the labor process.

Buscopan suppositories before childbirth are prescribed only if the expected benefit from them is higher than the potential harm to the child and mother. Of course, the best option would be if you do not use them at all. But in recent weeks, at the end of the third trimester, gynecologists quite often prescribe use of special suppositories for pregnant women.

The main thing that a pregnant woman should know is that Buscopan suppositories cannot be used in the first trimester, or for constipation. The best way The solution to this problem will be a revision of the diet. Thus, Buscopan suppositories can be used no earlier than the 38th week of pregnancy in order to maximally prepare the muscles of the uterus in order to facilitate future childbirth.

In candles with belladonna contains belladonna extract. The drug is released in the form of rectal suppositories. It is used in the treatment of hemorrhoids and anal fissures. An additional function of this drug is to have a relaxing effect on the cervix.

Belladonna suppositories have proven to be very effective in relieving cervical tension. However, they still fail to completely relieve pain when the os of the uterus opens. Belladonna suppositories are used before childbirth only if the pregnant woman does not have a risk of hemorrhoids and a predisposition to slow dilatation of the cervix.

Immediately before giving birth, a pregnant woman is given an enema. The absence of feces will make it easier for the baby's head to move through the pelvis, because in this case there will be no seals as it moves along the birth canal. The ability of an enema to tone the vagina, stimulating contractions and improving birth process, is its undoubted advantage.

An enema before childbirth is very simple. Prepare a solution from chamomile infusion, for example. The water temperature is recommended no more than 37 degrees. Fill the mug with the solution, release the air from it and secure it at a level of one meter from the place where you will be.

Apply soap, cream or Vaseline to the tip of the tube, release the air and carefully insert the tip. Gradually you should feel your intestines full. If you don't feel this way, try changing the direction of the tip. Make sure that air does not enter the intestines. If you feel discomfort, start breathing slowly and deeply, stroke your stomach and relax. After the solution is administered, go straight to the toilet.

Sanitation- one of the important components of preparing pregnant women for childbirth. Sanitation is the cleansing of pathogenic microorganisms in the birth canal. When a child is born, it comes into contact with the walls of the birth canal. He can swallow lubricant, secretions, etc. In the case of pathogenic microflora, the risk of various infections in the baby in the postpartum period increases (thrush in the mouth, conjunctivitis, etc.)

To cleanse the birth canal, you need to use antiseptics. This can be a decoction for washing from St. John's wort, sage or chamomile. Dissolved baking soda relieves burning and itching sensations.

In addition, doctors may prescribe antiseptics in the form of tablets or suppositories before childbirth. They will be aimed at combating pathogenic microorganisms. The most common drugs are vinylin, miramistin, clotrimazole, terzhinan , chlorophyll solution.

It should be noted that antibiotics do not act on candida fungus. This means that antibacterial therapy involves acting only on the fungus itself. These antibiotics are antifungal antibiotics. For example, nystatin contained in terzhinan.

Particularly useful during pregnancy is the use of olive oil on an empty stomach, which normalizes the functioning of the gastrointestinal tract, relieving the pregnant woman of constipation. In the last months of pregnancy, constipation in women is a very common occurrence. Olive oil is also an excellent remedy against late toxicosis in the last months of pregnancy . To soften the cervix before childbirth, it would also be a good idea to use olive oil.

HOW THE WATER BREAKS IN PREGNANT WOMEN

Answering the question of how amniotic fluid drains in pregnant women, we can say the following. Before birth, the fetus increases pressure on the mother's cervix. At some point, the membrane may burst, and then the amniotic fluid will flow out. However, even in this case the child is not dry, since mainly that part of the anterior waters that was between the head and cervix is ​​poured out. In addition, the waters are replenished and renewed every three hours. Sometimes your water breaks before contractions occur.

Understanding now how the waters break in pregnant women who are beginning to give birth, you need to know that they sometimes break immediately in a huge volume, which is approximately 200 ml, or a glass of liquid. This process feels like a cork has been pulled out, an exit has opened and at least a bucket of water is pouring out. It is impossible to confuse such a process with anything else. If this happens to you, you will have no doubt that the amniotic fluid has already broken.

Sometimes the water recedes in a peculiar way, leaking a small amount, little by little. This is simply explained by the fact that the amniotic sac is torn from the side or from above.

Light-colored, almost colorless waters are considered normal. They are sometimes a little cloudy and should not have an unpleasant or pronounced odor.

As soon as the pregnant woman's water breaks out, contractions may begin immediately. Sometimes this happens after a few hours.

The most favorable and a good option for women there will be a departure amniotic fluid after the contractions start. This process occurs against the background of very strong contractions of the pregnant woman’s uterus.

It is not worth accelerating labor with medications if the amniotic sac is intact, therefore, infection is impossible. If the water is retained, then the contractions will not be very painful. In this case, the dilation of the cervix will be more effective.

Apply for urgent medical care necessary when the waste water is greenish in color. Such green color signals that the fetus has either experienced or is experiencing this moment serious lack of oxygen. This also happens when some of the contents of his intestines get in - meconium, original feces.

The temperature before childbirth can sometimes be elevated. This signals what is happening pathological process. An elevated temperature should not be taken as a symptom of approaching labor. It, of course, can increase as a reaction to contractions and stress. But often she talks about an existing infectious disease in a pregnant woman.

An increase in temperature, which is associated with an obstetric infection, becomes of serious importance for the child. Premature leakage of water, undiagnosed for a long time, leads to inflammation of the membranes - chorioamnionitis. It can develop in full force by 3-4 days after damage to the amniotic sac. This happens if the pregnant woman did not consult doctors in a timely manner and therefore did not receive any protection from them. Monitor not only the temperature, but also the discharge of amniotic fluid.

If an infection gets inside the womb, the child will have difficulty resisting it. Bacteria may first infect the eyes, resulting in conjunctivitis and blepharitis. The lungs may be affected in utero (congenital pneumonia). Penetrating into the blood, bacteria cause blood poisoning (sepsis) and meningitis.

In the first days immediately after birth, it is very difficult to treat a child with intrauterine contamination and infections.

Fear, which often occurs in pregnant women before childbirth, is most common among first-time mothers. This is a completely natural phenomenon. To successfully overcome it, you must first of all think about the child and his safety.

Tune in to such behavior when you need to listen to the opinion of the obstetrician-gynecologist. Only in this case can childbirth be easy, quick and relatively painless. A little pain will only indicate a positive resolution. Always believe in your own strength.

Overcoming fear, as a natural reaction of the body, is necessary because during childbirth it is an absolutely useless thing. And even harmful. Setting yourself up for a favorable outcome of childbirth and your confidence in this will help you successfully overcome it.

Don’t listen too much to the stories of friends who have already given birth and now savor the smallest details of the process, sharing with you the details of their already forgotten sensations, and perhaps somewhat exaggerated. The best option You will benefit from taking preparatory courses for pregnant women. There you will have the opportunity to ask all the questions you are interested in, to which you will receive comprehensive and very useful answers from professional medical professionals.

Look for only positive information about childbirth. Listen to the stories of those who consider childbirth the most amazing and wonderful moment of life.

Pregnancy is a natural process for a woman. As they often say, pregnancy is not a disease. Don't neglect exercise. Continue to do gymnastics and visit the pool. Your activity for nine months will become the basis for absolute preparation for childbirth.

FINAL PREPARATIONS BEFORE BIRTH (WEEK). WHAT TO TAKE WITH YOU TO THE MATERNITY HOSPITAL

The long-awaited week before giving birth has arrived after so many days and months of waiting for the baby to appear. 36-37 weeks are already called the prenatal period. The baby may already be born any time. Now expectant mothers are beginning to experience fears that are associated not with pregnancy, but with the upcoming birth, and are increasingly thinking about the process of childbirth itself. But first you need to follow some recommendations from experts in order to the birth was successful and without complications . Pregnant women themselves can greatly contribute to this if they unconditionally comply with the requirements and advice that doctors give them.

Recommended approximately one month before expected birth, starting at 36 weeks of pregnancy , remove animal protein from your diet: fish, meat, butter, eggs and milk. Your diet at this time will include fermented milk products, water-based cereals, a variety of plant foods, fresh juices, baked vegetables, herbal teas and mineral water.

As your due date approaches, your diet becomes more limited. This is due to the fact that before childbirth you should not overload the intestines. It is also recommended to avoid fermented milk products in the last days before giving birth.

Experts recommend a complete sanitation of the birth canal, starting from the 36th week of pregnancy. This is done in order to cleanse the birth canal from pathogenic microflora and ensure its cleanliness directly during the upcoming birth. The risk of infection of the child increases if there is any infection in the birth canal. For example, herpes, common thrush and STDs . A child can become infected with all this while passing through the birth canal.

Pregnant women should weigh themselves regularly throughout the nine months. The optimal weight gain during this time is 9-13 kilograms. This calculation is done together with the weight of the child, uterus, amniotic fluid, breast, and placenta. The placenta, we note, at the end of pregnancy becomes much heavier and grows in size.

Urine given by a woman before each doctor's appointment is examined for the presence of sugar and protein. . The protein can signal so-called gestosis. This is late toxicosis, or toxicosis of the second half of pregnancy. The presence of sugar is known to indicate diabetes.

You can exercise and swim in the pool until you give birth. Don't give up on this under any circumstances.

The day before giving birth, a woman should get a good night's sleep. Sleep can be at least 8-10 hours. This is only a minimum amount of time, do not deny yourself sleep, because it calms the body. The main thing is to feel rested and recharged.

Before giving birth, doctors prescribe No-shpa to pregnant women , as well as candles with belladonna. They are necessary in preparing the cervix of those women who are at risk of slow dilatation.

Very often, a few hours before giving birth, a pregnant woman begins to feel sick, vomiting and diarrhea. Don’t panic, this is how the body begins to prepare for childbirth, naturally cleansing itself of everything unnecessary.

Childbirth directly begins with regular labor contractions. At first they pass at intervals of 10-15 minutes. Then they become more frequent and become much stronger. There is a gradual opening and smoothing of the cervix. Then the mucus, slightly stained with blood, begins to come out, and a fetal sac forms.

Two weeks before the upcoming birth, it is recommended to think about what to take with you to the maternity hospital. ? Don’t take anything extra so you don’t have to return it home. Here is a sample list of necessary things.

1. Required documents.
2. Things required during childbirth.
3. Things that will be needed after childbirth.
4. Necessary things for a newborn baby.
5. Necessary things for discharge:

- things for mom;
- items for discharge for the child;
- required documents.

The optimal list of things to take with you to the maternity hospital:

Perhaps this is exactly what you need take some other things to the maternity hospital additionally. Consult your family doctor and specialists who monitored your health during pregnancy.