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amniotomy
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procedure performed during labor and delivery in which a health-care provider intentionally breaks the amniotic sac or amniotic membrane; known as the artificial rupture of membranes (AROM)
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delayed cord clamping
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allowing extra time for blood in the cord and placenta to flow to the baby by waiting to clamp the cord, usually for 1 minute after birth
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first-degree laceration
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tear of the labia and perineum that affects the skin and subcutaneous tissue
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fourth-degree laceration
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tear that extends through the skin, subcuticular tissue, muscles of the perineum, and anal sphincter into the rectal mucosa; includes damage to the pelvic floor and surrounding anal and rectal mucosa
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involution
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process by which the uterus begins to return to its prepregnant size
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lochia
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vaginal discharge composed of blood, mucus, and tissue during the postpartum period
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obstetric examination
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medical assessment conducted by a health-care provider to evaluate and monitor the health and progress of the pregnant person and their developing fetus throughout pregnancy
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obstetric triage
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rapid assessment and prioritization of care based on the specific obstetric and gynecologic needs
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open glottis pushing
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spontaneous or natural pushing, a technique used during the second stage of labor
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postpartum hemorrhage
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postpartum bleeding that exceeds 500 mL for a vaginal delivery and 1,000 mL for a cesarean birth
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retained placenta
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when the placenta fails to spontaneously separate from the uterus during the third stage of labor within 30 minutes after birth
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second-degree laceration
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tear that affects the skin, subcutaneous tissue, and muscle of the perineum as well as the vagina
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shoulder dystocia
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condition presenting during delivery in which the head of the newborn is delivered but a shoulder is trapped behind the birthing person’s pubic bone
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skin-to-skin contact
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placing of the newborn directly on the skin of a parent to promote bonding
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third-degree laceration
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perineal tear that extends to or through the anal sphincter
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uterine atony
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lack of muscle tone in the uterus following birth
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uterotonics
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medications that increase the tone and contractility of the uterus
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vaginal examination
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medical assessment conducted by a health-care provider to evaluate and monitor the health and progress of the pregnant person during labor, to include cervical dilation, effacement, cervical position, station, and presenting part and position of the fetus