Abortion glossary :: Parturition
Parturition, more commonly known as birthing, childbirth, delivery, or labour, is the biological process whereby the pregnant person expells a developed foetus, placenta, etc., from the uterus through the vagina, which may transition to being removed via a cesarean section operation.
The process of parturition commences when certain hormonal changes (like oxytocin release) occur, which causes uterine contractions, cervical dilation, etc.
Stages of Parturition
- Contractions: The uterine muscles begin to tighten, which begins as mild before progressing to cramps, then strong waves, signalling the need to commence birthing.
- Dilation: The cervix gradually widens and softens, which eventually ruptures the amniotic sac (this commonly results in people saying something like "my water broke").
- Expulsion: The actual delivery of the foetus after the pregnant person has been pushing and a newborn baby is expelled through the birth canal.
- Placental: The delivery of the placenta (a.k.a., "afterbirth"), which usually follows the newborn baby almost immediately.
After birth, some medical concepts of abortion procedures may be utilized to prevent post-pregnancy complications, such as the removal of any remaining parts of the placenta or other tissues that are no longer needed, which is essential in ensuring an easier and healthier recovery because it reduces the changes of complications like infections.
See also