Basic Statistics for the Behavioral Sciences

Chapter Four: Birth and the Newborn Baby

Learning Objectives

  • Braxton-Hicks contractions: False labor that may occur before actual labor begins.

  • Three stages of childbirth: Evaluation of the significant characteristics in each stage.

  • Methods of childbirth: Comparison of various childbirth methods.

  • Birth problems: Understanding common issues related to birth and consequences of prematurity.

Truth or Fiction? Insights

  • Fetus initiates birth: The fetus signals readiness.

  • Slapping newborns: Traditionally done to stimulate breathing.

  • Umbilical cord cutting: Affects baby’s belly button type.

  • Lamaze method: Does not eliminate pain completely.

  • C-sections: About 30% of births in the USA.

  • Postpartum depression: Common and should not be stigmatized.

  • Bonding: Extended early contact is important but not essential for bonding.

Events Before Childbirth

  • Dropping: Fetal descent into pelvis.

  • Braxton-Hicks contractions: May start at the sixth month.

  • Vaginal spotting: Occurs before labor.

  • Amniotic fluid rush: Happens in 10% of women.

  • Prostaglandins: Secretion stimulates contractions during labor.

  • Oxytocin: Released to trigger strong contractions.

Stages of Childbirth

First Stage

  • Uterine contractions: Efface and dilate cervix.

  • Lasts several hours to over a day.

  • Involves fetal monitoring and possibly forceps.

  • Transition phase: Cervix nearly fully dilated; strong contractions increase.

Second Stage

  • Starts as baby crowns; ends with delivery.

  • Episiotomy: Potential procedure during crowning.

  • Newborn care includes suctioning mucus, cord clamping, and applying ointments.

Third Stage

  • Known as placental stage: Lasts minutes to over an hour.

  • Placenta detaches from the uterus.

Childbirth Methodologies

  • Anesthesia Usage: General anesthesia affects infants negatively; local anesthetics are safer.

  • Natural childbirth: No anesthesia used.

  • Hypnosis/Biofeedback: Teaches relaxation during contractions.

  • Prepared childbirth (Lamaze): Encourages relaxation through breathing techniques.

  • Cesarean Sections: Preferred under specific medical conditions.

  • Home Birth: Suitable for healthy women with minimal risk.

Birth Problems & Prematurity

  • Oxygen deprivation: Anoxia or hypoxia may lead to cognitive and health issues.

  • Prematurity: Defined as birth before 37 weeks; low birth weight is significant for health risks.

  • Impaired development and greater mortality in preterm and low-birth-weight infants.

  • Cognitive outcomes: Can improve with preschool experiences and responsive parenting.

Postpartum Period

  • Baby Blues: Temporary emotional state lasting about 10 days.

  • Postpartum Depression: Affects 10-20% of women; can involve severe symptoms.

  • Bonding: Initial bonding is complex; not strictly reliant on extended physical contact.

Neonate Characteristics

  • Apgar Score: Assesses newborn health; critical conditions below a score of 4.

  • Neonatal reflexes: Important indicators of survival and development.

  • Sensory systems:

    • Vision: Limited acuity; best at 7-9 inches away.

    • Smell/Taste: Strong preferences for pleasant stimuli.

  • Pain and Touch: Neonates respond to touch; previous misconceptions about pain sensitivity.

Sudden Infant Death Syndrome (SIDS)

  • Common during ages 2-4 months; more prevalent in certain demographics.

  • Risk factors include sleeping position, prematurity, and maternal behaviors during pregnancy.