Cervical dilation is the opening of the cervix, allowing the baby to pass into the birth canal. This natural process is a primary indicator of labor progression, helping individuals feel more prepared for delivery.
Understanding Cervical Dilation
The cervix, the lower part of the uterus, opens and is measured in centimeters during dilation. As labor progresses, the cervix gradually widens from a closed state to 10 centimeters, which is considered full dilation. This process is accompanied by cervical effacement, where the cervix thins out and shortens, measured from 0% to 100%.
These changes are necessary to create an open pathway from the uterus through the birth canal for the baby. During pregnancy, the cervix remains firm and closed, helping to keep the baby protected inside the uterus. As labor nears or begins, the cervix softens, thins, and starts to open, allowing the baby to descend.
Risks of Self-Checking Dilation
Attempting to self-check cervical dilation is not recommended due to several risks. A primary concern is introducing bacteria into the vaginal canal, which can lead to infection, as improper hygiene can disrupt its natural balance.
Self-checking can also be challenging and uncomfortable, especially as the cervix may be high and firm before labor begins. Without proper training, it is difficult to accurately assess dilation, leading to misleading information and unnecessary anxiety or discouragement. There is also a small chance of accidentally rupturing the membranes, or “breaking water,” which can initiate labor prematurely. This action, if not medically indicated, could expose the baby to infection and complicate labor.
Professional Assessment of Dilation
Healthcare providers, such as doctors and midwives, assess cervical dilation using a digital cervical exam. This procedure involves the provider inserting one or two gloved, sterile fingers into the vagina to feel the cervix. They then estimate the width of the cervical opening, with measurements ranging from 0 to 10 centimeters.
During this examination, the provider also assesses cervical effacement (thinning) and the baby’s station (how low the baby’s head has descended into the pelvis). This assessment is performed in a controlled, sterile environment to minimize the risk of infection. While the digital exam is the most common method, some providers may use a transvaginal ultrasound for a more precise measurement.
Identifying Labor Progression Signs
Rather than internal checks, there are several observable signs that indicate labor progression. Regular contractions are a primary indicator, becoming progressively stronger, longer, and more frequent. In early labor, contractions may be mild and irregular, but as labor advances, they become more consistent and intense.
Another sign is the “bloody show,” which is a discharge of sticky, jelly-like mucus, often tinged with pink or brown blood. This occurs when the mucus plug, which sealed the cervix during pregnancy, dislodges as the cervix begins to open and thin. While it indicates that the cervix is preparing for labor, it does not always mean labor will start immediately; it can be hours or even days before active labor begins. The rupture of membranes, commonly known as “water breaking,” is another significant sign. This can present as a sudden gush or a slow trickle of fluid, and means labor will begin within 24 hours.
When to Seek Medical Attention
Knowing when to contact a healthcare provider or go to the hospital is important for safety and proper management of labor. If contractions become regular, painful, and occur every 5 minutes or more often for at least an hour (for those who have had a baby before) or every 3 to 4 minutes for at least 2 hours (for a first-time parent), you should seek medical attention. If your water breaks, regardless of whether contractions have started, you should go to the hospital to reduce the risk of infection.
Other concerning symptoms that warrant immediate medical contact include heavy vaginal bleeding (more than just bloody show), decreased fetal movement, or any signs of labor before 37 weeks of pregnancy. Always communicate with your healthcare provider if you are unsure or worried about any symptoms, as individual circumstances can vary.