− | The step in the reproductive process that immediately precedes lactation, uterine involution and return to cyclicity. It is initiated by the foetus and involves a complex cascade of endocrine events. Parturition is the process by which the conceptus (foetus, placenta and placental membranes) is expelled from the [[Uterus - Anatomy & Physiology|uterus]]; this requires [[Cervical Softening - Anatomy & Physiology|cervical softening]],[[Parturition - Coordinated Myometrial Contraction - Anatomy & Physiology|coordinated myometrial contractions]] and contraction of abdominal muscles | + | The step in the reproductive process that immediately precedes lactation, uterine involution and return to cyclicity. It is initiated by the foetus and involves a complex cascade of endocrine events. Parturition is the process by which the conceptus (foetus, placenta and placental membranes) is expelled from the [[Uterus - Anatomy & Physiology|uterus]]; this requires [[Cervical Softening - Anatomy & Physiology|cervical softening]],[[Uterine Contraction - Anatomy & Physiology|coordinated myometrial contractions]] and contraction of abdominal muscles |