Covariation between human pelvis shape, stature, and head size alleviates the obstetric dilemma
Abstract
Because of the tight fit of the large human neonate through the narrow maternal birth canal, childbirth is remarkably difficult. In this study we show that the dimensions of head, stature, and pelvis in a human body are linked in a complex way that was not recognized before and that contributes to ameliorate this tight fit. We show that females with a large head possess a birth canal that can better accommodate large-headed neonates. Because mothers with large heads usually give birth to neonates with large heads, the detected pattern of covariation contributes to ease childbirth and has likely evolved in response to strong selection.
- Publication:
-
Proceedings of the National Academy of Science
- Pub Date:
- May 2015
- DOI:
- 10.1073/pnas.1420325112
- Bibcode:
- 2015PNAS..112.5655F