Childbirth MRI scan sheds light on labour

The MRI (magnetic resonance imaging) scan was taken at the Charite Hospital, Berlin in November 2011. The 24-year-old mother offered to spend the final stage of her labour inside the scanner to capture the images.

The MRI scanner was turned off just as the amniotic sack surrounding the baby burst, so the the scanner's noise would not disturb the newborn.

Scientists hope that the images will help to clarify the relationship between the movement of the baby and its position as it moves through the birth canal.

This may also shed light on why 15 per cent of women need Caesarians because the baby does not move along the birth canal.