Childbirth is a natural process, but sometimes complications can arise, making it more challenging. Awareness of the signs of a difficult childbirth can help you seek timely medical assistance, ensuring the safety of both mother and baby. Here are seven key signs to watch for:
1. Prolonged Labour (Failure to Progress)
Labour that lasts significantly longer than usual, especially during the active phase, can indicate a problem. Prolonged labour may result from the baby’s position, weak uterine contractions, or pelvic structure issues.
Medical intervention might be necessary if labour doesn’t progress despite strong contractions.
2. Abnormal Fetal Heart Rate
During labour, the baby’s heart rate is monitored to ensure they’re coping well. A fast or slow heart rate or rate patterns showing distress could indicate oxygen deprivation or another issue. Immediate medical attention may be required, such as oxygen for the mother or an emergency delivery.
3. Excessive Bleeding
Heavy bleeding before or during labour could indicate conditions such as placenta previa (when the placenta covers the cervix) or placental abruption (when the placenta detaches from the uterine wall). Both conditions are emergencies requiring prompt medical care.
4. Baby in an Abnormal Position
A baby who is not in the ideal head-down position (e.g., breech or transverse position) can make vaginal delivery more difficult. Your doctor may recommend specific maneuvers, repositioning techniques, or a C-section.
5. Signs of Infection
Symptoms like fever, chills, or foul-smelling amniotic fluid may indicate an infection in the uterus or membranes (chorioamnionitis). This can complicate labour and pose risks to both mother and baby, necessitating antibiotics or other interventions.
6. Umbilical Cord Issues
Problems like a prolapsed cord (when the cord slips into the birth canal ahead of the baby) or a nuchal cord (when the cord is wrapped around the baby’s neck) can restrict oxygen flow. These situations may require immediate delivery, often by C-section.
7. Intense and Continuous Pain
While pain is a natural part of labour, extreme and persistent pain that feels different from contractions may indicate a uterine rupture or other serious issues. Always alert your care team if your pain feels unusual or unbearable.
Contact Dr Mariud
If you notice these signs during labour, you must alert Dr Anmar Mariud immediately.
Prompt medical intervention can help resolve complications, ensuring a safe delivery for you and your baby. Remember, you’re not alone—Dr Anmar Mariud and his team are there to support and guide you every step of the way.