The cervix is the neck of the womb that leads to the vagina. People with a short cervix have an above average risk of premature birth.

Your cervix goes through many changes during pregnancy and childbirth. Find out about your cervix, what it does and why it's important.

During childbirth, your body's hormones, ligaments and muscles, as well as the shape of your pelvis, all work together to bring your baby safely into the world.

Placenta praevia is when the placenta lies low and may cover the cervix, complicating your baby's birth. Learn about diagnosis and treatment.

The second stage of labour lasts from when the cervix is fully dilated (open) until your baby’s birth. Learn more about this stage.

Cervical screening can be performed at any time, including during pregnancy. Regular cervical screening can protect you against cervical cancer.

Postpartum endometritis is when your uterus lining becomes infected after birth. Learn about the cause and treatment of postpartum endometritis.

Find out what happens during the first stage of labour; when contractions build up slowly, get stronger and become more frequent.

From conception to giving birth, your body goes through many physical changes. Learn what happens to your body during pregnancy and labour.

Slow progress in labour can also be called failure to progress or prolonged labour. Read what happens when labour doesn't go as quickly as expected.