Vaginal birth is childbirth in which the baby is delivered through the vagina rather than through a surgical abdominal delivery.
During a vaginal birth, uterine contractions move the baby through the cervix and pelvis until delivery. Some vaginal births occur without assistance, while others require instruments such as obstetric forceps or a vacuum extractor.
Vaginal birth is the most common method of childbirth worldwide, although it is not always the safest option for every pregnancy.
QUICK FACT
A cesarean section may be recommended when vaginal birth would place the mother or baby at increased risk.
COMMONLY CONFUSED WITH
- Spontaneous vaginal birth: vaginal birth occurring without forceps or vacuum assistance.
- Cesarean section: surgical delivery through incisions in the abdomen and uterus.
SEE ALSO
