Childbirth & Newborn Flashcards (Chapter 4)

A comprehensive set of flashcards covering key concepts related to childbirth and newborn care, including labor stages, C-sections, birth weight, neurodevelopment, and postpartum adjustment.

How does labor start?

The fetus initiates labor by producing hormones that trigger the release of prostaglandins, which stimulate uterine contractions. The mother then releases oxytocin, further promoting contractions.

What are the three stages of vaginal childbirth?

Stage 1: Longest stage; contractions to dilate the cervix.

Stage 2: baby’s head crowns and pushing stage delivery occurs. Stage 3: Placental stage; mother delivers the placenta (“flat cake”)

Why do we measure pregnancy in weeks?

Weeks are used to track fetal growth and development precisely. Pregnancy length is estimated from the first day of the last menstrual cycle, typically 40 weeks.

What percentage of births in the U.S. are C-sections?

Approximately 1 in 3 births, or 33%.

What are reasons a woman may need a C-section?

Previous C-section, baby’s position (e.g., breech, when the baby’s bottom is down), preventing transmission of diseases (e.g., HIV), labor fatigue or prolonged labor, avoidance of pain.

What is considered a preterm birth?

Birth before <37 weeks of gestation.

What is considered low birth weight (LBW)?

Any baby weighing <5.8 pounds (2,500 grams).

What is the “age of viability”?

Around 24 weeks, when a fetus has a decent chance of surviving outside the womb with medical support.

Why is it important for a baby to stay in utero as long as possible?

The third trimester supports rapid brain development, especially in the cerebral cortex, lowering the risk of neurodevelopmental problems.

What is the average birth weight in the U.S.?

Around 7.5 pounds; about 8% of babies are born with low birth weight.

What are neurodevelopmental disabilities?

A spectrum of brain-based impairments that affect thinking, movement, or social behavior, ranging from mild difficulties to disorders like ADHD or autism.

How does low birth weight relate to neurodevelopment?

The lower the birth weight, the higher the risk for neurodevelopmental disabilities and delays in cognitive or motor function.

How might parents treat their preterm babies?

Parents often show less physical interaction and may respond less sensitively, but this can improve through increased parental sensitivity.

What is parental sensitivity?

The parent’s ability to be consistently responsive to their baby’s cues, fostering secure attachment and healthy development.

What is “Kangaroo Care”?

A form of early stimulation involving skin-to-skin contact and exclusive breastfeeding when possible.

What are the benefits of early stimulation (e.g., kangaroo care)?

Better sleep, improved breathing and temperature regulation, faster hospital discharge, long-term developmental benefits.

What are the “baby blues”?

Affect around 70% of new mothers; includes mood swings, irritability, sleep disturbance, and fatigue; short-term and not functionally impairing.

What is postpartum depression (PPD)?

A more serious mood disorder affecting 10–15% of mothers, lasting weeks to months and interfering with daily life.

What are risk factors for PPD?

History of prenatal depression, lack of social support, hormonal changes, and high stress.