THIRD STAGE PRACTICES AND THE NEONATE

Abstract

The third stage of labour is defined as the period following the completed delivery of the newborn until the completed delivery of the placenta and its attached membranes. Whilst to the exhausted labouring woman this stage may be an afterthought, it is a crucial time for fetal-to-neonatal transition. Major changes in anatomy and physiology occur in both mother and baby. It has also been described as ‘potentially the most hazardous part of childbirth, largely due to the risk of postpartum haemorrhage (PPH) on placental separation. Despite this, the current management guidelines are based on an ‘eclectic combination of historical, anecdotal, philosophical and research-based factors.