760 PLAIN FACTS 



is devoid of danger wlien performed under the aseptic 

 conditions which are now so thoroughly understood. 

 Having mentioned in a previous chapter (page 484) 

 the essential points relating to the hygiene of preg- 

 nancy, we pass immediately to the consideration of— 



LABOR, OR CHILDBIRTH 



The duration of pregnancy is generally from 278 

 to 300 days. At the end of this period, labor, or par- 

 turition, occurs, the process by which the new human 

 being is brought into the world. This process some- 

 times begins suddenly, but generally gives indications 

 of its approach for some days or at least hours. 



The symptoms of the approaching conclusion are, 

 gradually increased irritability of the bladder, with 

 much difficulty in standing or walking, and a change 

 in form of the abdomen, which results from the set- 

 tling down of the womb, leaving the waist smaller, but 

 increasing the prominence of the lower portion of the 

 abdomen a short time before the labor is to begin. 

 Also the external parts become swollen, and there is a 

 leucorrheal discharge of a thick, clear matter somewhat 

 resembling the white of an egg. Uterine contractions, 

 quite painless in character, are also indicative of the ap- 

 proaching crisis. These contractions at first occur at 

 irregular intervals. "VATien they become regular, the 

 labor has begun. The pains usually begin in the back 

 and sacrum, and extend to the front part of the abdo- 

 men. Wliat are termed false labor pains arise from 

 colic, constipation, or irritation of the bowels. They 

 differ from labor pains in being irregular. The term 

 pain, as used in obstetrics, is applied to the spasmodic 



