As previously mentioned, the third stage of labor is the period from birth of the baby through delivery of the placenta.

This is considered a dangerous time because of the possibility of hemorrhaging.

Signs of the placental separation (see figure 2-9) are as follows:

a. The uterus becomes globular in shape and firmer.

b. The uterus rises in the abdomen.

c. The umbilical cord descends three (3) inches or more further out of the vagina.

d. Sudden gush of blood.