syntymäkanavasta

Syntymäkanava refers to the passage a baby travels through during childbirth. It comprises the mother's pelvis, cervix, and vagina. The pelvic bones provide the bony structure of the birth canal, while the cervix, the lower, narrow part of the uterus, must dilate significantly to allow the baby to pass. The vagina is a muscular tube that extends from the cervix to the outside of the body.

During labor, uterine contractions help to push the baby downwards towards the birth canal. The baby's head typically enters the pelvis first, and as labor progresses, the cervix dilates and effaces (thins out). Once the cervix is fully dilated to about 10 centimeters, the baby begins to descend through the vagina. The muscular walls of the vagina and the mother's pushing efforts further assist in the baby's exit.

The dimensions and shape of the mother's pelvis are crucial factors in the birthing process, as they must accommodate the size and position of the baby. If the baby is particularly large, or if the pelvis is unusually narrow, complications can arise. Medical professionals monitor the progress of labor and the baby's descent to ensure the safety of both mother and child. The entire process of passing through the birth canal is often referred to as delivery or birth.