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A Picture Guide to Childbirth

By , About.com Guide

Third Stage - Placenta
Third Stage - Placenta Photo © A.D.A.M.
Typically everyone is so caught up in the baby that the placenta is usually only monitored by the midwife, doctor or nurses.

Mother

  • Uterus continues to contract.
  • Placenta will usually detach on its own from the uterus within 5-30 minutes.
  • Holding and nursing the baby will speed the process.
  • May be asked to push to aid in the expulsion of the placenta.

Baby

  • Breathing and crying.
  • Settling with mom, skin to skin.
  • Attempts to breastfeed.

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