Onset of labour

Weeks before

• increasing frequency of painless contractions

• release of pressure in upper abdomen

• increased urinary frequency / constipation from pressure in pelvis

False Labour

• painful uterine contractions without cervical dilatation

• may need analgesia / hypnotics

True Onset of Labour

• palpable contractions, gradually becoming stronger and more regular

• cervical effacement

• cervical dilatation

• show (plug of mucus + blood)

If long latent phase

• provisos
  • no cephalopelvic disproportion
  • cervix soft, partly/wholly effaced
  • 2cm dilated
• amniotomy and Oxytocin drip

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