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Third stage of labour — DRCOG MCQ

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EasyLabourThird stage of labourDRCOG

A 30-year-old woman at 39 weeks discusses her birth plan. She asks about the injection offered after birth of the baby to help deliver the placenta and reduce bleeding. What would you advise?

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Correct answer: D — Active management reduces the risk of postpartum haemorrhage

Active management of the third stage, usually with a uterotonic, reduces postpartum haemorrhage risk. It does not prevent shoulder dystocia, which occurs before birth of the body. It does not prevent perineal trauma and is not a diagnostic test. Breastfeeding can start without it, although skin-to-skin and early feeding are encouraged.

Reference: NICE NG235; RCOG Green-top Guideline No. 52