Term and Preterm Parturition.

Parturition is the act of giving birth.1 It is a complex process that includes the anatomical, physiological, biochemical and immunological events taking place in the mother, placenta and fetus. These events are responsible for: (1) the preparation of the uterus for labor; (2) labor per se, leading to the delivery of the fetus and placenta; and (3) post-partum uterine involution, breast feeding and adaptation of maternal behavior. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]