The placenta is expelled from the body following childbirth through a process primarily involving natural physical forces.
Placenta Delivery Methods
The way the placenta comes out depends largely on the method of birth management chosen. There are two main approaches:
Physiological Management
- What it is: This approach is often favored in midwife-led units and at home births. It emphasizes the body's natural processes.
- How it works:
- Pushing: The mother actively pushes, similar to the pushing phase of labor.
- Gravity: Utilizing upright positions and gravity aids the descent of the placenta.
- Contractions: Uterine contractions continue after the baby’s birth, assisting in the separation and expulsion of the placenta.
- Nipple Stimulation: In some cases, nipple stimulation can trigger the release of oxytocin, further aiding contractions.
- Timing: This method can take up to one hour.
- Note: It does not involve the use of oxytocin injections.
Active Management
- What it is: This approach is commonly used in hospital settings.
- How it works: It typically includes the use of oxytocin injection which helps the uterus contract more strongly and push out the placenta.
- Timing: This is typically a much quicker process than physiological management, usually within minutes.
Key Factors in Placenta Expulsion
Regardless of the approach, several elements are key to successful placenta delivery:
- Uterine Contractions: These contractions, whether naturally occurring or stimulated, are essential for detaching the placenta from the uterine wall.
- Gravity: Upright positions are used to help the placenta descend.
- Pushing Efforts: Active pushing from the mother can help expedite delivery once the placenta has separated.
Summary
| Method | Primary Actions | Timing | Use of Oxytocin Injections |
|---|---|---|---|
| Physiological | Pushing, gravity, contractions, sometimes nipple stimulation | Up to one hour | No |
| Active | Uterine contractions stimulated by oxytocin injection. | Minutes | Yes |
