Which statement is true regarding pushing during labor?

• A. A mother can push at any time during labor
• B. A mother cannot push until fully dilated to 10 cm
• C. A mother should push after the water breaks
• D. A mother should wait until the doctor arrives to push

Answer: (B)

The statement that a mother cannot push until fully dilated to 10 cm is accurate because the process of delivering a baby involves several stages, one of which is the dilation of the cervix. During labor, the cervix needs to be fully dilated (10 cm) to allow the baby to pass through the birth canal safely. Pushing before reaching full dilation can lead to complications, such as cervical swelling or tearing, and can hinder the labor process.

When the cervix is not fully dilated, the baby is not in the optimal position for delivery, and pushing could be ineffective or even harmful. The guideline to wait until full dilation before beginning to push helps ensure a smoother labor and delivery process, as the mother’s and baby’s needs can be better managed once the cervix is adequately opened for passage.

Other statements might suggest different timings or conditions for pushing, but they do not align with established practices and medical guidelines related to the dilation stage in labor.