At the conclusion of nine lunar months, or 38 weeks, the fetus is fully developed and ready for birth. This final stage in pregnancy leads to labor, marking the transition of the fetus from the womb to the outside world. The Qur'an references this process, stating that each fetus remains in the womb for an appointed, known term:
Whoever thinks that Allah will not help His Prophet in this world and the Hereafter, let them stretch out a rope to the ceiling and strangle themselves, then let them see if this plan will do away with ˹the cause of˺ their rage. 22:15
Labor proceeds through four phases: Expansion and Contraction of the Cervix: Lasting approximately 7-12 hours, this phase involves the expansion of the cervix due to hormonal signals from prostaglandin, oxytocin, and other hormones. The cervix opens to allow the fetus to pass through the birth canal. Delivery of the Baby: This phase, lasting 30-50 minutes, follows full cervical dilation. Through successive contractions, the baby’s head moves down the birth canal, where it eventually emerges first. The fetal head, often around 12 centimeters in diameter, stretches the cervix significantly, tripling its typical diameter. This powerful display aligns with Allah’s words:
Then He makes the way easy for them,80:20
Delivery of the Placenta: After the baby is born, the placenta detaches and is expelled, a process taking about 15 minutes. Following this, coagulated blood forms to reduce post-delivery blood loss. Uterine Contraction and Shrinkage: The uterus contracts, reducing in size over roughly two hours to help prevent hemorrhage and prepare the mother’s body for recovery. During the labor process, the Qur’an emphasizes the health benefits of dates, mentioning the relief they provided to Maryam (Mary), peace be upon her, during childbirth. Scientifically, dates are known to: Be rich in fiber, which aids in preventing constipation. Provide high glucose content for quick energy. Supply essential minerals, such as potassium and magnesium, which support muscle function and cell health, and iron, essential for replenishing blood lost during labor. Contain compounds that naturally stimulate uterine contractions, resembling the effects of oxytocin. After delivery and the cutting of the umbilical cord, the newborn enters a new stage of life outside the womb. The Qur’an beautifully describes the entire process of human development, portraying each stage of fetal formation with remarkable accuracy. Centuries before modern embryology, these Qur'anic descriptions were available, providing insights later confirmed by science, highlighting Allah’s role as the Creator.
