Estrogen increases blood flow and vaginal tissue elasticity. Relaxin relaxes pelvic ligaments and widens cervix
NICUs are classified by AAP into four levels from Level I to Level IV. Level I NICUs care for healthy preterm infants born 35-37 weeks. Level II NICUs serve babies born 32-35 weeks weighing 1,500g+. Level III NICUs provide critical care for premature infants under 32 weeks. Level IV NICUs offer highest level of care for all newborns
Doctors recommend breastfeeding within minutes of birth. Babies should be fed when hungry, before crying. Breastfeeding should be exclusive for first 6 months
Postpartum care should be an ongoing process rather than a single visit. Initial contact with provider should occur within first 3 weeks. Comprehensive visit should conclude no later than 12 weeks after birth. Women should be assessed for mood, emotional well-being, and breastfeeding
Daily warm baths help prevent infection after stitches. Drinking water dilutes urine and reduces soreness. Pelvic floor exercises help control sudden urination. Tampons should not be used until 6 weeks postpartum
First-time births take 8-18 hours, second-time births 5-12 hours. Labour starts between weeks 38-42 of pregnancy. Three stages: preparation, delivery, and placenta delivery