CHAPTER I. STAGES OF LABOUR.

Preparatory stage.--Precursory symptoms.--First contractions.--Action of the pains.--Auscultation during the pains.--Effect of the pains upon the pulse.--Symptoms to be observed during and between the pains.--Character of a true pain.--Formation of the bag of liquor amnii.--Rigour at the end of the first stage.--Show.--Duration of the first stage.-- Description of the second stage.--Straining pains.--Dilatation of the perineum.--Expulsion of the child.--Third stage.-- Expulsion of the placenta.--Twins, 156