In cases of maternal or fetal complications, labor may be medically induced. These methods typically aim to trigger the body to naturally begin labor. They include artificially rupturing the amniotic sac (“breaking the water”), nipple stimulation, and administering prostaglandins.

A caesarian section is a method to deliver the fetus surgically. During the procedure, an incision is made in the mother’s abdomen and uterus to remove the fetus. Caesarian sections are used in the case of pregnancy and labor complications, but they can also be undertaken electively.

Neonatal intensive care units are highly developed and specialized units that house premature infants. These units provide the following advances in neonatal care: temperature regulation, protection, nutrition, and the administration of medications.

Postpartum depression is a condition that may occur in women that have recently given birth. It is a type of clinical depression that is recognized by the medical community and is found in mothers all over the world. Symptoms of postpartum depression include low energy, anxiety, and mood changes. Postpartum depression may interfere with mother-infant bonding. Methods to prevent postpartum depression include peer support and antidepressants.

During childbirth, oxytocin stimulates fetal expulsion through cervical dilation and uterine contractions. Oxytocin is also important in the development of maternal feelings of attachment to the fetus and plays a role in lactation.

Instrumental delivery is the delivery of an infant through the use of medical instruments. This is used in the case of difficult deliveries and labor complications. Instruments that are commonly used include the vacuum extractor and forceps.

Prolactin is a hormone responsible for the production of milk in the mammary glands of mammals. It is not involved in the menstrual cycle, which is controlled by fluctuating levels of the hormones estrogen, progesterone, luteinizing hormone (LH), and follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH).

Ejaculation is defined as the process by which sperm is discharged from the male body through the urethra. This process typically occurs during the male orgasm.

One average, one menstrual cycle typically lasts for about 28 days; however, this time length can range anywhere from 21 to 35 days depending on the individual.

An increase in estrogen causes an increase in the luteinizing hormone. It is the luteinizing hormone that causes ovulation. Ovulation is the process of releasing an ovum. 

Growth hormone creates growth in the body. Follicle-stimulating hormone helps follicles mature, and promotes spermatogenesis in males. Prolactin causes the mammary glands to create milk. Thyroid-stimulating hormone helps release thyroxine and triiodothyronine (thyroid hormones).