Uterine contraction
(Redirected from Contraction (childbirth))
Uterine contraction refers to the tightening and shortening of the uterus' muscular walls, a process that plays a crucial role in various stages of the female reproductive cycle, including menstruation, sexual intercourse, childbirth, and the postpartum period.
Physiology[edit | edit source]
Uterine contractions are facilitated by the hormone oxytocin, which is produced by the pituitary gland. During childbirth, the release of oxytocin triggers a series of intense contractions, which help to dilate the cervix and push the baby through the birth canal.
Types of Uterine Contractions[edit | edit source]
There are several types of uterine contractions, each with its own unique characteristics and functions:
- Braxton Hicks contractions: These are often referred to as "practice contractions" and can occur throughout pregnancy. They are typically painless and irregular, serving to prepare the uterus for labor.
- Labor contractions: These contractions occur during childbirth and are more regular and intense than Braxton Hicks contractions. They serve to dilate the cervix and push the baby through the birth canal.
- Afterpains: These are contractions that occur after childbirth as the uterus returns to its pre-pregnancy size.
Clinical Significance[edit | edit source]
Understanding and monitoring uterine contractions is crucial in the management of various medical conditions and scenarios, including preterm labor, dysmenorrhea, and endometriosis. In addition, uterine contractions are a key focus during the labor and delivery process, with interventions such as epidural anesthesia and uterotonics used to manage contraction pain and intensity.
See Also[edit | edit source]
<img src="//upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/commons/thumb/8/83/WikiMD_stub_logo.svg/40px-WikiMD_stub_logo.svg.png" alt="Stub icon" width="40" height="40" /> | This gynecology related article is a stub. You can help WikiMD by expanding it. |
This obstetrics related article is a stub.
Navigation: Wellness - Encyclopedia - Health topics - Disease Index - Drugs - World Directory - Gray's Anatomy - Keto diet - Recipes
Search WikiMD
Ad.Tired of being Overweight? Try W8MD's physician weight loss program.
Semaglutide (Ozempic / Wegovy and Tirzepatide (Mounjaro / Zepbound) available.
Advertise on WikiMD
WikiMD is not a substitute for professional medical advice. See full disclaimer.
Credits:Most images are courtesy of Wikimedia commons, and templates Wikipedia, licensed under CC BY SA or similar.Contributors: Prab R. Tumpati, MD