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Williams Obstetrics, 23e
| Section II. Anatomy and Physiology > |
Chapter 6. Parturition
Sections: Parturition: Introduction, Phases of Parturition, Physiological and Biochemical Processes Regulating Parturition, Physiology and Biochemistry of Preterm Labor, References.
Topics Discussed: labor.
Excerpt:"The last few hours of human pregnancy are characterized by uterine contractions that effect cervical dilatation and cause the fetus to descend through the birth canal. Long before these forceful, painful contractions, there are extensive preparations in both the uterus and cervix, and these progress throughout gestation. During the first 36 to 38 weeks of normal gestation, the myometrium is in a preparatory yet unresponsive state. Concurrently, the cervix begins an early stage of remodeling termed softening, yet maintains structural integrity. Following this prolonged uterine quiescence, there is a transitional phase during which myometrial unresponsiveness is suspended, and the cervix undergoes ripening, effacement, and loss of structural integrity...."
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