The main principles of
closer together and regular. Your legs
aseptic technique include:
 assessing the potential bio contamination risks
 decontaminating tools, surfaces, and key parts
 protecting yourself and others from spreading
pathogens
 wearing personal protective equipment (PPE)
 creating and working within aseptic fields
(germ-free spaces)
 using non-touch techniques whenever possible
 avoiding cross-contamination
Stage 1: Early labor and
active labor
The first stage of labor and birth occurs
when you begin to feel persistent
contractions. These contractions become
stronger, more regular and more frequent
over time.
Early labor
During early labor, your cervix dilates
and effaces. You'll likely feel mild,
irregular contractions.
As your cervix begins to open, you might
notice a clear pink or slightly bloody
discharge from your vagina.  After your baby is born, you'll likely feel
early labor:
 Go for a walk
 Take a shower or bath
 Listen to relaxing music
 Try breathing or relaxation
techniques taught in childbirth class
 Change positions
Active labor
During active labor, your cervix will
dilate from 6 centimeters (cm) to 10 cm.
Your contractions will become stronger,
might cramp, and you might feel
nauseated. 
active labor:
 Change positions
 Roll on a large rubber ball (birthing
ball)
 Take a warm shower or bath
 Take a walk, stopping to breathe
through contractions
 Have a gentle massage between
contractions
Stage 2: The birth of your
baby
It's time! You'll deliver your baby during
the second stage of labor.
When it's time to push, you may experiment
with different positions until you find one
that feels best. You can push while
squatting, sitting, kneeling — even on your
hands and knees.
Stage 3: Delivery of the
placenta
a great sense of relief. You might hold
the baby in your arms or on your
abdomen. Cherish the moment. But a lot
is still happening. During the third stage
of labor, you will deliver the placenta.
Signs and symptoms of placental
abruption include:
 Vaginal bleeding, although there
might not be any
 Abdominal pain
  Back pain
 Uterine tenderness or rigidity
 Uterine contractions, often coming
one right after another
Some examples of common diseases
and conditions that can cause
complications during your pregnancy
include:

 diabetes
Some of the most common
complications of pregnancy  cancer
include:  high blood pressure

 high blood pressure  infections

 gestational diabetes  sexually transmitted diseases,

including HIV
 preeclampsia
 kidney problems
 preterm labor
 epilepsy
 a loss of pregnancy, or
miscarriage  anemia

Some examples of common

diseases and conditions that can
cause complications during your
pregnancy include:

 diabetes
 cancer
 high blood pressure
 infections
 sexually transmitted diseases,
including HIV
 kidney problems
 epilepsy
 anemia