Cervical dilation is the opening of the cervix, the entrance to the uterus, during childbirth. This natural progression indicates how labor is advancing, as the cervix must open sufficiently for the baby to pass into the birth canal. Understanding this process is important for those approaching childbirth.
Understanding Cervical Dilation
Cervical dilation refers to the widening of the cervix, measured in centimeters, ranging from 0 cm when completely closed to 10 cm when fully open. As labor progresses, uterine contractions work to gradually open the cervix, preparing it for delivery. When the cervix reaches 10 centimeters, it is considered completely dilated, indicating readiness for the pushing stage of labor.
Alongside dilation, another related change is effacement, which is the thinning and shortening of the cervix. Effacement is measured in percentages, from 0% (no thinning) to 100% (fully thinned). While dilation and effacement often occur together, effacement can sometimes begin before dilation, and both are necessary for the baby to move through the birth canal.
In the early stages of labor, the cervix typically dilates from 0 to 3 or 4 centimeters, with contractions that may be mild and irregular. Active labor usually begins around 4 to 6 centimeters of dilation, characterized by stronger and more frequent contractions that facilitate a more rapid opening of the cervix. The final phase, known as transition, sees dilation from 8 to 10 centimeters, often accompanied by intense contractions and a strong urge to push.
The Professional Dilation Check
A healthcare provider, such as a doctor or midwife, performs a cervical dilation check to assess labor progression. This examination involves a sterile technique to minimize the risk of infection. The patient typically lies on an examination table with legs apart, and the provider inserts one or two gloved and lubricated fingers into the vagina to reach the cervix.
During this manual examination, the provider feels for several characteristics of the cervix. They assess its consistency (softness), position, and the degree of effacement. The primary goal is to determine cervical dilation by estimating the width of the opening with their fingers. They also evaluate the baby’s “station,” which indicates how far the baby’s head has descended into the pelvis.
This procedure usually takes only a couple of minutes. While it can cause some discomfort or pressure, it is a routine part of labor management that helps medical professionals make informed decisions about care. Healthcare providers are trained to perform these checks accurately and safely, ensuring the well-being of both the birthing person and the baby.
Risks of Self-Checking
Attempting to self-check cervical dilation is not recommended due to several potential risks. One significant concern is the increased possibility of introducing bacteria into the vaginal canal, which can lead to infection, particularly if the amniotic sac (water) has ruptured. Maintaining a sterile environment is important when assessing the cervix, a condition difficult to achieve outside of a medical setting.
Self-examinations can also result in inaccurate readings, which may lead to either false reassurance or unnecessary anxiety. It can be challenging for an untrained individual to correctly identify the cervix, measure dilation, or assess effacement. This misinterpretation could delay seeking necessary medical attention or cause undue stress.
There is also a potential for cervical irritation or injury if the examination is not performed with proper technique and care. The cervix is a sensitive area, and improper handling could cause trauma or other complications. For these reasons, assessing cervical dilation is a medical procedure best performed by trained healthcare professionals.
When to Contact Your Healthcare Provider
Knowing when to contact a healthcare provider or go to the hospital is important during late pregnancy or when labor is suspected. Individuals should seek professional medical attention if they experience regular, strong contractions that become closer together and last longer. For first-time parents, this often means contractions occurring every 5 minutes for at least an hour, each lasting about a minute. Those who have given birth before might need to go sooner, such as when contractions are 5 minutes apart for an hour.
Immediate contact with a healthcare provider is also warranted if the water breaks, regardless of whether contractions have started. It is important to note the color and amount of fluid. Other signs that require urgent medical evaluation include vaginal bleeding (more than just a “bloody show” of mucus tinged with pink or brown), decreased fetal movement, or persistent severe abdominal or pelvic pain. These signs indicate a need for professional assessment to ensure the well-being of both the parent and the baby.