This article discusses the routine practice of performing vaginal examinations during labor to assess the progress of childbirth. The accuracy and necessity of these examinations have been called into question, as they can be invasive and uncomfortable for the mother. Various alternative methods for assessing labor progress are proposed, including monitoring uterine contractions, maternal behavior and vocalizations, and the use of intrapartum ultrasound. These methods show promise in reducing the number of vaginal examinations, but more research is needed to establish their effectiveness. The article emphasizes the importance of supporting normal childbirth and the need for healthcare providers to develop skills in non-invasive methods of labor assessment. [Extracted from the article]