Referred to by some fans as a "cave episode," it is noted for its focus on survival in a harsh environment.
While IMDb reviewers give it an average rating (around 6.4 to 7.0), critics like Jammer's Reviews have called it "mundane" and an "after-school special" due to its lack of a significant overarching plot. [S2E7] Parturition
The episode begins with a physical altercation in the mess hall between Neelix and Paris. To force them to resolve their differences, Captain Janeway sends them on a shuttle mission to "Planet Hell," a violent M-class planet. While there, they discover a weakened alien infant and must work together to save its life by using concentrated vapors from the planet's atmosphere. This shared responsibility leads to a mutual understanding; Paris admits his attraction to Kes but pledges to respect Neelix’s relationship. Referred to by some fans as a "cave
" Parturition " is the seventh episode of the second season of . It is widely regarded as a character-focused piece that resolves the simmering tension between Tom Paris and Neelix over their shared affection for Kes. Plot Summary To force them to resolve their differences, Captain
For a deeper dive into the episode's production and legacy, check out this retrospective discussion:
Many critics find the first half repetitive, noting that Neelix’s jealousy was already a tired trope by this point in the series.