It is not unusual to find hard spots on the cervix during examination of a
woman in labor. If the woman does not have condylomas, most often what you
are feeling are small cervical scars from previous births or gynecological
procedures. The use of instruments for dilating the cervix or delivering
the baby often causes small tears to occur, as does pushing a baby out
prematurely (before complete dilation). These adhesions most often will
break down during the active phase of labor. If you feel they are causing a
lack of progress (the woman remains at 5-6 cm for over an hour), you might
consider simply pressing the adhesion against the presenting part during a
contraction. You will feel the adhesion break up under your finger. This
causes no pain and readily resolves the problem. There may be a spot of
blood as this is done, but this is of no concern. The labor will usually
progress rapidly after the adhesion is gone.
-Valeria El Halta, Midwifery Today Issue 46
Reprinted from Midwifery Today E-News (Vol 2 Issue 13 March 31, 2000)
To subscribe to the E-News write: enews@midwiferytoday.com
For all other matters contact Midwifery Today:
PO Box 2672-940, Eugene OR 97402
541-344-7438, midwifery@aol.com, Midwifery Today
|
|