PHYSIOLOGIC EFFECT OF LABOR TO FETUS

• Neurologic system

  • uterine contraction exert pressure to fetal so the same response that is involved with any instances of increase intracranial pressure occurs
  • decrease of FHT about 5 beats per min
• cardiovascular system

  • during contraction, arteries of uterus are filled with cotyledons almost completely halts
  • amount of nutrients is reduced causing to inconsentual fetal hypoxia
• integumentary system

  • edema is equal to caput succedeaneum
• musculoskeletal system

  • the force of uterine contraction tends to push a fetus into a position of full flexion, which is the most advantageous position for birth
• respiratory system

  • the process of labor aids the maturation of surfactant production by alveoli in the fetal lungs
• the pressure applied to the chest from contraction and passage through the birth canal helps to clear the lung fluid
• Inadequate or prolonged contraction

  • less frequent and duration means uterine exhaustion (inertia)
• uterine contraction longer than 70 seconds should be reported
• meconium staining

  • loss of rectal sphincter control allowing meconium to pass in amniotic fluid
• hyperactivity

  • sign that hypoxia is occuring
• oxygen saturation

  • fetus should has around 40 to 70 percent