partos

Partos is the plural form of parto in Spanish and is used in medical and everyday language to refer to childbirth or deliveries. The word comes from Latin partus, meaning birth. In obstetrics, partos describe the events by which a fetus is expelled from the uterus, including the stages of labor, delivery, and the passage of the placenta. The term is also used more generally to refer to births in animals, not only humans.

In clinical practice, partos are described in terms of stages. The first stage involves regular contractions and progressive dilation of the cervix, preparing for birth. The second stage encompasses the active pushing and delivery of the baby. The third stage ends with the expulsion of the placenta and membranes. Rupture of membranes, often called “water breaking,” is a common event associated with labor and is monitored as part of managing the process.

Partos can proceed by different routes. The most common is parto vaginal, where the baby is delivered through the birth canal. A cesárea, or cesarean delivery, is a surgical alternative used when vaginal birth poses risks or is not feasible. Some partos are planned as cesarean sections, while others occur as emergency procedures. Premature partos occur when birth happens before 37 weeks of gestation and may require specialized neonatal care.

Public health and clinical practice emphasize prenatal care, birth planning, and postpartum recovery to reduce complications for mother and child. Cultural, legal, and regional differences influence birth practices, settings, and attitudes toward pain relief and autonomy.