Childbirth is one of the most important and exciting experiences in every mother's life. This natural process not only marks the end of pregnancy, but also the beginning of a new and wonderful phase in the life of mother and baby. During childbirth, the mother's body experiences extensive physical and hormonal changes so that the fetus can enter the outside world safely and healthily. For mothers, knowing about labor and its stages, signs of approaching birth and physical and mental preparation strategies, can reduce stress and worries and provide a calmer and safer experience of this sensitive moment. What is childbirth? Childbirth is a natural and complex process during which the fetus, after passing the full pregnancy period, leaves the mother's womb and enters the outside world. This process is the result of the coordinated interaction of several vital systems in the mother's body; including the nervous system, hormonal system and uterine muscles. The onset of labor is marked by regular uterine contractions. These contractions, which occur regularly and at regular intervals, cause the cervix to gradually soften and open and provide a way for the fetus to pass through. During childbirth, hormones such as oxytocin, which causes the uterus to contract, and endorphins, which help reduce pain, play a vital role. In addition, progesterone and estrogen hormones prepare the uterus and increase tissue flexibility.
Real video of the fetus in the womb
Natural stages of childbirth
Natural childbirth is a complex and staged process that is divided into three main stages. Each stage includes certain physical and hormonal changes and plays a vital role in the healthy birth of the baby. ### Dilation of the cervix
The first stage is the longest stage of labor and begins with the first regular uterine contractions. At this stage, the cervix gradually softens and opens to prepare the way for the baby to pass. Contractions are still gentle and spaced, and the cervix slowly dilates to about 4 cm. The mother may feel mild pain or pressure in the lower back and abdomen. Contractions become more intense and regular, and the cervix quickly opens up to about 10 cm. At this stage, the mother needs psychological and physical support and may experience more pressure and pain. At this stage, hormones such as oxytocin strengthen contractions and endorphins help reduce pain. ### Leaving the baby
The second stage begins when the cervix is fully dilated. At this stage, the mother pushes with each uterine contraction to push the baby through the birth canal. The baby's head gradually enters the pelvis and passes through the birth canal with its natural rotations. Finally, the baby's head and body are removed and the baby takes its first breaths. This stage is shorter than the first stage, but the intensity of pain and pressure is greater. The support of a midwife or birth attendant can help control pain and reduce mother's anxiety. ### Expulsion of the placenta and fetal membranes
After the baby is born, the uterus continues to contract to expel the placenta and fetal membranes from the uterus. This stage is short and lasts between 5 and 30 minutes. Bleeding control and a thorough examination of the placenta are very important to make sure that there are no remaining parts of the placenta inside the uterus. This stage is the last step of natural childbirth, and with its end, mother and baby enter the stage of post-natal care. Signs of approaching childbirth
Approaching the time of delivery is associated with a series of physical, hormonal and psychological changes in the mother's body. Knowing these symptoms helps mothers to prepare for the birth of a baby with more calm and readiness. **Know more:** laser vaginoplasty; Vaginal stricture with laser
### Physical changes before childbirth
One of the first signs of approaching childbirth is the descent of the fetus in the pelvis, which is also called fetal drop. In this case, the baby's head moves towards the pelvis and there is less pressure on the mother's diaphragm and chest, but the pressure on the bladder and pelvis increases. The cervix gradually becomes soft, short and ready to open. This change occurs gradually during the last days or weeks of pregnancy and may be accompanied by an increase in vaginal secretions. These secretions, often mucous and sometimes with slight bleeding, indicate the preparation of the uterus for childbirth. ### Uterine pains and contractions
Uterine contractions are the most important sign of the beginning of the labor process. These contractions happen regularly and with short intervals and gradually intensify. At first, contractions are incomplete and irregular and may only bother the mother. As labor approaches, regular contractions become longer and more intense, and the pain is felt in the lower back and abdomen. These contractions cause the cervix to open and the baby to move towards the birth canal. The difference between real labor contractions and training is in regularity, intensity and gradual increase of pain. ### Mental and psychological changes
In the days and hours close to childbirth, the mother may experience anxiety, excitement, restlessness or even extreme fatigue. These changes are caused by the increase of birth hormones such as oxytocin and progesterone and the preparation of the mind for the complex process of childbirth. Being aware of these psychological changes helps the mother to manage her stress and go into labor more calmly. Breathing exercises, the presence of a reliable companion, and mental preparation are among the effective ways to deal with prenatal anxiety. Types of childbirth
Childbirth can be done in different ways, and the choice of each method depends on the conditions of the mother and fetus and the doctor's opinion. Knowing these methods helps mothers to enter the birth process with awareness and preparation. ### Natural childbirth
Natural childbirth is a process that is performed without surgical intervention and includes regular uterine contractions, opening of the cervix and the exit of the baby from the birth canal. Reducing the risk of surgery-related complications such as infection and bleeding. Faster recovery of the mother after childbirth and faster return of the uterus to its normal state. Strengthening the baby's immune system and starting breastfeeding faster due to the natural release of hormones. Natural childbirth can be a more tolerable and relaxing experience for the mother with pain management techniques, such as proper breathing, massage and the presence of a reliable companion. ### Cesarean delivery
Caesarean section is a surgical procedure in which the fetus is removed through an incision in the abdominal wall and uterus. This method is recommended in special situations, abnormal placement of the fetus such as breech or transverse. Placental problems such as placenta previa or premature placental abruption. Diseases or medical problems of the mother that make natural childbirth dangerous. Although caesarean section is a safe and common procedure, it may have complications such as a longer recovery period, pain at the incision site, and risk of infection. Careful planning and post-operative care are the keys to reducing complications. ### Pregnant delivery
Gestational birth is a natural birth where the mother is placed in a hot tub. This method is recommended for healthy mothers with uncomplicated pregnancies and is performed under the supervision of a doctor or midwife to ensure the safety of the mother and the baby. This method has many advantages such as
- Reducing the pain caused by uterine contractions due to the heat of the water and the buoyancy of the mother's body. - Reducing the pressure on the mother's pelvis and back. - A calmer experience and reduction of mother's anxiety during childbirth. **Conclusion**
Childbirth is a natural and unique experience that changes the life of mother and baby deeply. Knowing the stages, signs of approaching birth and various birthing methods helps mothers to enter this process with physical and mental preparation and have a safe and calm experience. Care before, during and after delivery plays a key role in the health of the mother and the baby, and choosing the right delivery method should be done based on medical conditions, doctor's recommendations and the mother's physical condition. ### **
