Desert Storks

PAIN RELIEF DURING LABOUR AND CHILDBIRTH

Each woman’s labour is unique. The amount of pain that women experience is dependent on many different factors, which include:
• the size of the baby
• the position of the baby
• the dimensions of the pelvis
• the strength of the contractions
• fatigue, fear and anxiety
• previous labouring/birth experience and expectations
• many issues not yet understood
 Therefore, it is hard to predict how much pain a woman will have until she goes through labour. Some women have tolerable, controllable levels of pain, while others may benefit from some form of pain relief. Many non-medical techniques exist that can help the pain during labour, including breathing and relaxation techniques, warm showers, massage, supportive nursing care, position changes (standing, sitting, walking, rocking), and using a labour ball to name a few. However, for some women, these measures may not be enough. These women may seek a medicated form of pain relief. Read more »

GROUP B STREPTOCOCCUS AND PREGNANCY

Group B streptococcus (group B strep or GBS) is a common bacterium that is found in the body. It is usually harmless in adults. Up to 30 per cent of pregnant women carry the bacterium in their vagina or rectum. Sometimes, a woman who has group B strep can infect her baby during birth. This can cause serious illness in the newborn. The mother may also become very ill from the infection after the birth.

Even if you have group B strep, your baby will not necessarily be infected or develop serious illness. Read more »

I’m Having a Caesarean Birth!!

What is a caesarean?

Caesarean Birth is the surgical technique whereby the baby and placenta are delivered through an incision in the uterus. The operation may be performed electively before the onset of labour or as an emergency once labour has commenced.
Types of incisions

There are 2 types, named in relation to where the uterine incision is made:
The lower uterine incision – the transverse or bikini line incision (most common)
The upper uterine incision or classical incision – the vertical incision.
Anaesthetic

This may be a General Anaesthetic or an Epidural Spinal Block.
Each type has its advantages and disadvantages; your doctor will discuss the type of anaesthetic suited for you. Read more »