Photos: Photographer captures the ecstacy and agony faced by girlfriend during childbirth

A photographer has captured startling photographs showing the agony and ecstasy etched on his partner's face as she gives birth to their daughter.

Gustavo Gomes documented almost every aspect of his partner Priscila's 20-hour labour with his camera and has produced a series of amazing photographs that have been lauded around the world.

The couple agreed to take the unusual step after deciding on a home birth at their house in Brazil.

The birth began late on Sunday night and continued well into the following day and Gustavo, who is a journalist, said he had tried to get Priscila to pose for pictures but was forced to give up as the pain got worse for her.

Almost everything, from Priscila pacing up and down to her wincing in agony was caught on camera.

Finally, after 20-hours, the couple's daughter Violeta was born - a moment that left Gustavo in tears.

Gustavo told the Mirror Online:

"Besides being our personal story, we hope these photos can raise awareness about natural and home childbirth in Brazil.

"Priscila and me never felt helpless during the whole process with a doula, an obstetrician and a pediatrician, and we hope that these photos can demystify natural and home childbirths and encourage future mothers to avoid unnecessary c-sections."

The proud father also revealed that he now intends to continue documenting his daughter's life throughout childhood.