What is the third stage of labor called? Newborn first examination and stitches after birth

Third stage of labor - the placenta coming out: After your baby is born, the uterus can contract to push out the placenta. Your midwife will offer you an injection in your thigh just as the baby is born, which will speed up the delivery of the placenta.

The injection contains a drug called Syntocinon, which makes the uterus contract and helps to prevent the heavy bleeding which some women experience.

Let your baby breastfeed as soon after birth as possible. It helps with breastfeeding later on and it also helps your uterus to contract.

Babies start sucking immediately, although maybe just for a short time. They may just like to feel the nipple in the mouth.

Examination of baby at birth

Skin-to-skin contact with your baby is important and helps with bonding. Your baby will like being close to you just after birth.

The time alone with your partner and your baby is very special.

Your baby will be examined by a midwife or pediatrician and then weighed (and possibly measured) and given a band with your name on it.

Vitamin K injection for baby after birth  

You will be offered an injection of vitamin K for your baby, which is the most effective way of helping to prevent a rare bleeding disorder (hemorrhagic disease of the newborn). Your midwife should have discussed this with you beforehand. If you prefer that your baby doesn’t have an injection, oral doses of vitamin K are available. Further doses will be necessary.

Stitches after normal delivery   

Small tears and grazes are often left to heal without stitches because they frequently heal better this way. If you need stitches or other treatments, it should be possible to continue cuddling your baby.

Your midwife will help with this as much as they can.

If you have had a large tear or an episiotomy, you will probably need stitches. If you have already had an epidural, it can be topped up. If you have not, you should be offered a local anesthetic injection.

The midwife or maternity support worker will help you to wash and freshen up, before leaving the labor ward to go home or to the postnatal area.