Medical Uni References – Pregnancy Issue and Contraceptive Prevalence Rate

This high-tech replacement for the ear trumpet is used to track the baby’s heartbeat. Electronic fetal monitoring (EFM) will be used routinely in all cases of high-risk pregnancies, but most mothers and babies don’t require it. You will have EFM if you are being induced or your labour is being accelerated for any reason, or if you have opted for epidural anaesthesia. Its main function is to give warning of fetal distress. If your doctors decide that you and your baby would be better off with EFM, try to see it as a source of reassurance. You can watch your baby’s heartbeat during labour and know that he is fine.

What it is

There are two kinds of electronic monitors, external and internal. An external monitor can be used early in labour and is sometimes used during pregnancy to check the baby’s well-being. The internal monitor is slightly more accurate. You will have belts strapped around your body and a tiny electrode will be clipped on to the baby’s head. Your contractions and the baby’s heartbeat are recorded on a printout (partogram). There is also a video screen that records the contractions and heartbeats as visible waves, punctuated by flashing lights.

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Certain procedures historically associated with childbirth are being re-evaluated. Some have been found to be unnecessary, others unjustified. However, most of today`s obstetricians believe that they can guarantee that childbirth is a safer and happier experience for a mother and her baby with the help of modern technology.

By drawing your attention to the arguments con­cerning some standard medical practices, this will help you to question them assertively with your medical and nursing attendants. More often than not, your wishes will be complied with, especially if you have written a birth plan in advance, but occasionally you will be told that to continue with a particular option will put you or your baby at serious risk — for instance, if your baby is showing signs of distress and you fight to continue with a totally natural childbirth. Be prepared to adapt your ideas.

Shaving

Nowadays, shaving is unnecessary unless you are having a Caesarean section. Any chance of infection can be eliminated by wiping the vulva with gauze and simply spraying with an antiseptic.

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