There are 3 stages of labor with early labor not included in any of the stages. The first stage of labor corresponds to active labor and cervical dilation. Second stage is indicated by a fully dilated cervix and ends with the birth of the baby and third stage labor coincides with the delivery of the placenta.

Each breast has approximately twenty lobes, which consist of lobules divided into alveoli and ducts. The alveoli contain milk-producing acini cells surrounded by myoepithelial cells which contract and propel milk from the breast.

During pregnancy, the human body goes through many changes to support the growth of the baby. A nutritious and diverse diet is paramount to a healthy pregnancy and a healthy baby. A diet rich in good quality proteins, fats, vegetables, grains and fruits is incredibly important.

Postpartum blues diminish with time but depression, characterized by increasing withdrawal and inability to cope, gets progressively worse. The blues are associated with hormonal shifts, sleep deprivation and impending lactation and are more likely to occur in those who are not physically up to par especially if the birth was debilitating.

Which area of the breast is most vulnerable to abnormal, cancerous growths? The upper, outer quadrant of the breast contains the most tissue and is the most likely site for abnormal growth. Which point in the menstrual cycle is best for self-examination of the breasts, and why?

A microbiome is defined as all of the micro-organisms that live with us and on us. This includes bacteria, viruses and fungi. Our microbiome interacts with us as a co-partner as the relationship is mutually beneficial. There is an intimate relationship between our microbiome and our gut/immune system.

A trauma free, tear free birth is one of the cornerstones of midwifery care. However, It is up to the laboring woman to have the awareness to ease the baby out. Sometimes, this can be easier said than done. If the mother is struggling with sensations or involuntarily contracting the pelvic outlet muscles, a hot compress to the perineum can help her relax and re-focus.