Some primates undergo even more extreme childbirth than humans

Scientists have long thought extreme childbirth was unique to humans. But some other primates appear to face similar anatomical challenges.

Human childbirth is often difficult and incredibly painful—just ask anyone who’s been through it. And for a long time, childbirth seemed to be uniquely difficult for humans. But a new study suggests that we aren’t alone: Some small primates birth offspring whose heads are nearly twice the size of the mother’s pelvic area.  

So how do those primates go through difficult childbirths? Why didn’t evolution make ours any easier? And what can this tell us about humankind? Flora explores these questions and more with anthropologist Lia Betti.

Guest:

Dr. Lia Betti is an associate professor of anthropology at University College London in the UK.

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