Definition of Fourth stage of labor
Fourth stage of labor: The hour or two after delivery when the tone of the uterus is established and the uterus contracts down again expelling any remaining contents. These contractions are hastened by breast-feeding, which stimulates production of the hormone oxytocin.
Source: MedTerms™ Medical Dictionaryhttp://www.medterms.com/script/main/art.asp?articlekey=3512
Last Editorial Review: 3/26/1998 2:25:00 PM
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