These 26 Breathtaking Photos of Childbirth Will Stop You in Your Tracks

11/10/2017 11:02 am EST

Every year, the International Association of Professional Birth Photographers has a photo competition for the best birth photos that capture the beauty, pain and power that encompass a child's birth. The organization boasts over 1,000 members from 42 countries across the globe. This year's competition produced some absolutely stunning photos of live births that you'll have to see for yourselves to believe just how magical they are.

Warning: While birth is beautiful, it can get messy and real. Be prepared to see graphic images.

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