Final answer:
The signs of placental separation include the lengthening of the umbilical cord, a sudden gush of dark blood, and a change in the shape of the uterus to a more globular form. These signs are crucial for identifying successful separation of the afterbirth to manage the delivery process and minimize complications.
Step-by-step explanation:
The signs of placental separation during the third stage of childbirth, which involves the delivery of the afterbirth or placenta and associated fetal membranes, are critical to observe for a safe delivery process. The correct signs of placental separation are:
Lengthening of the umbilical cord: As the placenta separates from the uterine wall, the umbilical cord typically appears to lengthen outside the vagina.
A sudden gush of dark blood: This occurs due to the separation of the placenta from the uterine wall, releasing blood that had been trapped behind the placenta.
Change in the shape of the uterus: The uterus becomes firmer and more globular as the placenta detaches and moves into the lower segment of the uterus for delivery.
It is important for the healthcare provider to monitor for these signs and ensure the safe delivery of the placenta to avoid complications like postpartum hemorrhage. Continued uterine contractions aid in reducing blood loss post placental delivery and contribute to the process of involution, returning the uterus to its pre-pregnancy size. If the placenta does not spontaneously deliver within 30 minutes, it is considered retained, which may require manual or surgical intervention.