Complications of Childbirth

Childbirth is a natural process, but sometimes certain complications may arise that require medical intervention. In this article we will look at two such complications - episiotomy and premature birth.

Episiotomy (perineotomy)
An episiotomy is a surgical cutting of the perineum that is sometimes performed during childbirth. The incision is made from the center of the perineum to the side (episiotomy) or towards the anus (perineotomy). This procedure is performed only for certain indications:

1. Risk of perineal rupture: When the perineum is under high tension and there is a risk of natural rupture, an episiotomy may be performed to prevent more serious damage.

2. Acute fetal hypoxia: If the fetus experiences a significant decrease in heart rate during labor, the doctor may decide to perform an episiotomy to speed up the birth process and reduce the risk of harm to the baby.

3. Breech birth: In this position, the fetal head comes last, which increases the risk of injury. An episiotomy may be performed to reduce this risk.

4. Premature birth: Premature babies have soft bones and are more susceptible to injury during birth. An episiotomy can ease the process of delivering a premature baby and reduce possible damage.

5. Green waters: If the waters are green, this may indicate fetal distress. In such cases, an episiotomy can help make labor easier and reduce the risk to the baby.

6. Weak labor: If contractions do not get stronger or weaken over time, this may indicate weak labor. In such cases, an episiotomy may be performed to induce labor.

The reasons for the weakness of labor can be various, including insufficient readiness of the body for childbirth, inflammatory diseases of the genital organs, abortion, obesity, various complications of pregnancy and fatigue of the woman during childbirth. Often, weakness of labor is observed after prolonged pain in the lower abdomen, accompanied by irregular contractions. This condition is called the pathological preliminary period.

To identify weakness of labor, doctors examine the nature of contractions, examine the cervix and monitor the strength of contractions. Treatment We will take a closer look at premature birth.

Premature labor (premature rupture of membranes)
Preterm birth occurs before the 37th week of pregnancy. It can be caused by a variety of factors, and doctors can use different strategies to prevent or manage preterm labor.

Some of the most common causes of preterm birth include:

1. Premature cervical ripening: The cervix should remain closed for most of pregnancy. However, in some women, the cervix begins to ripen and open prematurely, which can lead to premature labor.

2. Infections: Some infections, such as urinary tract infections or vaginal infections, can cause preterm labor.

3. Placenta problems: Placenta insufficiency, or premature separation of the placenta from the uterine wall, can cause premature labor.

4. Multiple Pregnancies: Pregnancy with multiple fetuses may increase the risk of preterm birth.

5. Previous preterm birth: Women who have had preterm birth in previous pregnancies have an increased risk of the condition recurring.

6. Contraction of the membranes: If the membranes contract or rupture prematurely, it can lead to premature labor.

In the case of preterm labor, doctors can take several steps to manage the situation:

1. Antibiotics: If infection is the cause of preterm labor, doctors may prescribe antibiotics to prevent or treat the infection.

2. Tocolytics: Tocolytics are medications that can slow or stop contractions to prevent preterm labor. They can be used as a temporary measure to allow time for adequate treatment and preparation for childbirth.

3. Steroids: For preterm labor before 34 weeks of pregnancy, doctors may recommend steroids to help the fetus' lungs develop and reduce the risk of complications.

4. Hospitalization: In cases of preterm labor, the woman may be admitted to the hospital for observation and necessary medical care.

It is important to note that each case of preterm birth is unique, and the treatment approach may vary depending on the specific situation.