Before birth, the baby grows and develops in the uterus, or womb. The birthing process begins with regular contractions of the uterus and dilation, or opening of the cervix, the narrow opening where the uterus joins the vagina.
When the cervix is fully dilated at 10 centimeters, around 4 inches, uterine contractions become stronger and more frequent. The baby goes through a series of passive movements, especially the head.
Birth stations indicate how low the baby's head can be felt in the mother's pelvis. The baby's head then begins its passage out of the vagina called crowning. Labor continues as the baby's head and body pass out of the womb and vagina.
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