virginitas in partu

The term "virginitas in partu" refers to the theological doctrine that the Virgin Mary remained a virgin during the birth of Jesus. This belief is a corollary to the doctrine of the Virgin Birth, which states that Jesus was conceived by the Holy Spirit without a natural father.12

The doctrine of the Virgin Birth is a fundamental tenet of traditional Christianity, accepted by Roman Catholic, Orthodox, and most Protestant churches, as well as by Muslims. It is based on the infancy narratives in the Gospels of Matthew and Luke.1

The concept of virginitas in partu suggests that Mary experienced no pain during childbirth, maintaining her virginity throughout the process. This idea, along with the belief in Mary's perpetual virginity throughout her life, is accepted by Orthodox and Roman Catholic churches, though generally not by Protestant denominations.12