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==Stages of Parturition==
 
==Stages of Parturition==
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*Stage 1: this is the preparatory stage, starting at the onset of regular uterine contractions followed by cervical dilatation and the foetus assuming the correct disposition for passage through the birth canal.
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*Stage 2: the expulsive stage, characterised by the onset of abdominal contractions which together with uterine contractions lead to foetal expulsion
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*Stage 3: separation and expulsion of the foetal membranes. In polycotous species second and third stages are often inter-mixed.
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The following table summarises the normal time taken to progress through the stages of parturition in different species.
 
The following table summarises the normal time taken to progress through the stages of parturition in different species.
 
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