Normal Bırth

What Is Vaginal Birth?

Vaginal birth is a physiological birth process in which the baby is born through the vaginal route without any surgical intervention. It occurs between the 37th and 42nd weeks of pregnancy, usually around the 40th week [1]. The World Health Organization (WHO) defines normal birth as a vaginal birth that starts, progresses, and is completed spontaneously in a low-risk pregnancy, with both the mother and baby in good condition [2].

Vaginal birth occurs with the opening of the cervix through contractions and the baby passing through the birth canal. From a physiological perspective, it is recommended that it takes place with as little intervention as possible for the expectant mother. If the mother’s body structure is not suitable for vaginal birth, other delivery methods are evaluated.

How Is Vaginal Birth Performed?

Vaginal birth is completed in three stages. In the first stage, regular contractions begin and continue until the cervix is fully dilated (9-10 cm); in first births, this process may take an average of 12-20 hours [3]. During this process, the mother’s contractions and the baby’s heartbeat are monitored.

In the second stage, the baby passes through the birth canal. In the third and final stage, the delivery of the placenta is completed; this stage usually takes 5-30 minutes. ACOG emphasizes that each stage should be managed under careful monitoring [3].

You can also review the methods of Vaginal Birth After Cesarean and Water Birth.

When Does Vaginal Birth Take Place?

Birth typically occurs between the 37th and 42nd weeks of pregnancy; the expected due date is the 40th week. It is not possible to determine the exact start date of labor in advance; it begins naturally when the expectant mother’s body is ready [2].

If pregnancy goes beyond the 42nd week, doctors may perform medical interventions to initiate labor because this situation may pose risks for both the mother and baby. The breaking of the water (rupture of the amniotic sac) and cervical dilation are the main signs that labor has begun.

What Are the Signs of Vaginal Birth?

The main signs indicating that birth is approaching are:

• Regular Contractions: Contractions that start from the lower back and spread to the lower abdomen, becoming more frequent and intense. Each contraction usually lasts 20-70 seconds.
• Water Breaking: Fluid coming from the vagina due to the rupture of the amniotic sac; this may happen suddenly or as a leak. In this case, a doctor should be contacted immediately.
• Mucus Plug Discharge: Pink or brown vaginal discharge caused by the release of the mucus plug that closes the cervix.
• Lower Back and Groin Pain: Persistent pain similar to menstrual cramps that intensifies with contractions.
• Cervical Dilation: The doctor observes during examination that the cervix has begun to widen and thin.

What Are the Benefits of Vaginal Birth?

Vaginal birth offers important advantages for both maternal and infant health. WHO states that the benefits of vaginal birth for the mother and baby should be supported and unnecessary medical interventions should be avoided [2].

• The postpartum recovery process is generally faster; the mother may return to daily life within a few days.
• As the baby passes through the birth canal, it receives pressure that supports lung development; this facilitates the first breath.
• The baby may strengthen the immune system by coming into contact with beneficial bacteria in the birth canal.
• The mother is psychologically empowered through active participation in the birth process; this positively affects the mother-baby bond.
• Compared with cesarean delivery, the risk of complications and the length of hospital stay are generally lower [1].

How Long Does Vaginal Birth Take?

The duration of vaginal birth varies from person to person. The dilation stage, which is the longest stage of labor, may last 12-20 hours in first births and 6-12 hours in subsequent births. The active phase, during which the baby passes through the birth canal, may last 1-2 hours in first births and may be shorter in subsequent births. Delivery of the placenta is usually completed within 5-30 minutes [3].

Who Cannot Have a Vaginal Birth?

In some cases, cesarean delivery may be preferred or required instead of vaginal birth. ACOG states that the following situations should be evaluated when deciding on cesarean delivery [3]:

• The mother’s pelvic structure is not suitable for the baby’s passage
• The baby is in breech or transverse position
• The baby is very large (macrosomia)
• Preeclampsia or serious pregnancy complications
• Placental problems such as placenta previa or placental abruption
• Presence of signs of fetal distress

Things to Consider After Vaginal Birth

After vaginal birth, some important points should be considered to support the mother’s recovery:

• Adequate rest and sleep should be ensured.
• A balanced diet rich in fiber and sufficient fluid intake should be prioritized.
• Kegel exercises may be performed to strengthen the pelvic floor muscles.
• If there are episiotomy or tear stitches, keeping the area clean and dry reduces the risk of infection.
• During postpartum bleeding (lochia), sanitary pads should be used instead of tampons.
• A follow-up examination should definitely be attended in the 6th week after birth.
• If symptoms of postpartum depression are observed, professional support should be sought [2].

Frequently Asked Questions

References

1. American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists (ACOG). First and Second Stage Labor Management. Clinical Practice Guideline No. 8. Obstetrics & Gynecology, 2024. (https://www.acog.org/clinical/clinical-guidance/clinical-practice-guideline/articles/2024/01/first-and-second-stage-labor-management)
2. World Health Organization (WHO). WHO Recommendations: Intrapartum Care for a Positive Childbirth Experience. Geneva: WHO, 2018. (https://www.who.int/publications/i/item/9789241550215)
3. American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists (ACOG). Obstetric Care Consensus: Safe Prevention of the Primary Cesarean Delivery. (https://www.acog.org/clinical/clinical-guidance/obstetric-care-consensus/articles/2014/03/safe-prevention-of-the-primary-cesarean-delivery)