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birth canal
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birth canal

anatomy
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Quick Summary

The birth canal is the passage through which a fetus travels during birth. It is formed by the cervix, vagina, and vulva. The cervix is the lowest part of the uterus and connects to the vagina. During childbirth, the cervix dilates, and the uterine contractions, sometimes aided by the mother's pushing efforts, help move the baby through the birth canal. The shape of the mother's pelvis and the baby's position influence how the baby passes through this canal.123

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4 Britannica Sources
  1. birth canal
  2. cervix
  3. birth - Fetal presentation and passage through the birth canal
  4. human reproductive system

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