Crowning phase contractions
Things to consider in the crowning phase
As the pushing continues, the baby's head extends upwards, moving around and under the woman's pubic arch, stretching the perineum to its capacity. From when you can see about 5cm (in diameter) of the baby's head, to about 10 cms the baby's head will advance slightly more with each contraction, staying where it is after the contraction has stopped. (Some women having a subsequent baby will still experience the head retreating until 'crowning'. This is normal and does not slow the process as the baby moves further down with the next contraction).
The baby's head continues to advance in this way for a few contractions until it 'crowns'. This is when the widest part of the baby's head (or their crown) has emerged. Generally, the baby's crown, part of their forehead (nearly to their eyebrows) and the back of the baby's head can be clearly seen.
 |
WARNING: This image shows a drawn image of the head crowning and the perineum stretching. If you would like to look at this image, Click here. ( Image 6-09). |
|
WARNING: This image shows a real photo of a baby's head crowning. If you would like to look at this image, Click here. ( Image 6-10). |
As the baby's head crowns the woman's
perineum is stretched to its maximum, being nearly paper-thin. There is usually an intense burning (or stinging sensation) for a few seconds as this occurs, then easing as the perineum numbs. The burning can trigger panic for some women, causing them to cry out or scream. Remarks such as 'get it out', 'get your hands away', 'do something' or the odd expletive which we won't elaborate on here, are expressed.
The head can remain in the crowning position for as little as a few seconds or up to a couple of contractions.