Normal delivery means the baby is born through the natural birth canal (vagina) without the need for major surgical intervention.

1. Early Labor (Latent Phase)

• Cervix starts to open (dilate) up to 3–4 cm
• Mild, irregular contractions
• Can last hours

2. Active Labor

• Cervix dilates from 4–10 cm
• Strong, regular contractions
• Mother may receive pain relief if needed
• Baby begins to move down

3. Delivery of Baby

• Fully dilated cervix
• Mother pushes with each contraction
• Baby comes out through the birth canal

4. Delivery of Placenta

• Placenta comes out within 10–30 minutes
• Uterus contracts to prevent bleeding

Benefits of Normal Delivery

• Faster recovery
• Less hospital stay
• Lower risk of complications than C-section
• Baby receives beneficial microbiome exposure
• Mother can walk early and resume routine activities faster