Final answer:
The purpose of uterine contractions during the second stage of labor is specifically to push the fetus through the birth canal. These contractions, along with the mother's efforts, facilitate the delivery of the baby.
Step-by-step explanation:
Purpose of Uterine Contraction During Labor
The purpose of uterine contractions during the second stage of labor is to push the fetus through the birth canal. This stage involves not just contractions of the uterus, but also the mother's effort in pushing as she uses her abdominal muscles to aid the delivery. Once the baby has been delivered, the third stage begins with the delivery of the placenta.
If the mother does reach the second stage of labor naturally, synthetic oxytocin, or Pitocin, may be employed to induce or strengthen contractions.
It is important to understand that while the first stage involves cervical dilation and effacement, the second stage is primarily focused on the expulsion of the baby, supported by uterine contractions.