Your body is ready to deliver the placenta. This happens within fifteen
minutes after your baby is born. Most women don't even notice this
delivery in the excitement of watching their baby's first moments of life.
Google Square Ad
The
placenta becomes detached and travels through your birth canal.
Contractions begin as the placenta becomes detached. You will naturally
want to push. When the placenta appears detached, your doctor may gently
pull on the umbilical cord, guiding it down while gently pushing above your
pelvis.
After your placenta has been delivered, it will be examined carefully to be
sure it is complete. Your doctor will examine your vulva for tears and
will give you stitches if necessary. You will probably be
given Pitocin intravenously to contract your uterus and stop the bleeding so you
won't hemorrhage. Your uterus should become a toned hard ball, closing the
arteries so they will not bleed.
Your legs may be shaking from your amazing delivery, and you may feel cold -
maybe even shivering. This time almost seems to fly in the excitement of
the delivery room with the birth of your beautiful baby.
After you have your baby, you will bleed for a few weeks. For the first two to three
days this will be red, but will turn brown after that. If at any time it
becomes red again, this may be a sign that there is still a piece of placenta in
your uterus. If this occurs, call your doctor immediately.
Additionally, if you develop a fever or pass red blood clots, call 911 for an
ambulance.