Contractions

Definition

In biology context, contractions refer to rhythmic tightening and relaxing of uterine muscles during childbirth which help push baby out through birth canal.

Related terms

Uterus: The organ in women where offspring are conceived and gestate before birth; also known as womb.

Cervix dilation: The process during labor when cervix opens up to allow passage for baby's birth.

Braxton Hicks Contractions: These are 'practice' contractions that sometimes start weeks before actual labor.