Cervical checks are a routine part of prenatal care and labor monitoring. These examinations involve a healthcare provider assessing the cervix, the lower part of the uterus connecting to the vagina. Typically, a digital exam uses a gloved hand to feel the cervix. Occasionally, a speculum or ultrasound may be used. The goal is to gather information about cervical changes indicating progression toward or during childbirth.
Cervical Checks During Pregnancy
Cervical checks during pregnancy are performed for various reasons, especially as a pregnancy nears its end. Around 36 to 37 weeks of gestation, some providers offer these checks as part of routine prenatal appointments. The purpose is to assess the cervix’s readiness for labor, including its dilation (opening), effacement (thinning), position, and consistency. However, these routine checks are not always necessary and do not definitively predict when labor will begin.
Checks may also be performed earlier if symptoms suggest potential complications, such as preterm labor. These symptoms can include contractions, bleeding, or premature rupture of membranes. A cervical check helps determine if the cervix is changing, indicating early labor. For individuals at risk of preterm birth, cervical length measurement via transvaginal ultrasound is a valuable screening tool, typically performed between 16 and 24 weeks. A cervical length less than 3 cm in mid-pregnancy can indicate an increased risk of preterm delivery.
Cervical checks are also common before labor induction. The information gathered, such as dilation and effacement, helps providers determine the most suitable induction methods and estimate success likelihood. This assessment is often incorporated into a Bishop score, a system evaluating cervical favorability for induction. While checks provide insights into the cervix’s status, they do not offer a precise timeline for labor onset.
Cervical Checks During Labor and Delivery
During active labor, cervical checks monitor childbirth progression. Upon arrival at a hospital or birthing center, an initial exam establishes a baseline of cervical dilation and effacement. This helps providers understand how far labor has advanced. Subsequent checks are usually performed periodically, often every few hours, or as needed based on the laboring individual’s symptoms or contraction patterns.
These examinations provide information about three indicators of labor progression: dilation, effacement, and fetal station. Dilation measures how open the cervix is, from 0 (closed) to 10 (fully dilated) centimeters. Effacement refers to the thinning of the cervix, measured as a percentage from 0% (thick) to 100% (paper-thin). Fetal station indicates how far the baby’s head has descended into the pelvis relative to the ischial spines, reported as a positive or negative number.
The data collected from cervical checks guides labor management and interventions. For example, if labor stalls or there are concerns about the baby’s well-being, this information helps providers determine next steps, such as adjusting pain management. While regular checks are common, frequency varies; situations like fetal distress or epidural needs may necessitate more frequent assessments.
Patient Considerations Regarding Cervical Checks
For many, cervical checks can be uncomfortable or painful. Discomfort is influenced by factors like cervix position, provider skill, and individual sensitivity. Patients should communicate any pain or discomfort during the examination to their provider. Relaxation techniques, such as deep breathing or distraction, can help manage these sensations.
Beyond discomfort, minor risks are associated with cervical checks. One concern is introducing bacteria, which can increase infection risk, particularly if membranes have ruptured. While rare, a check could accidentally cause the water to break. Despite these considerations, cervical checks are generally safe when performed by trained professionals.
Patients have the right to informed consent regarding any medical procedure, including cervical checks. They can discuss the reasons, benefits, and potential risks with their provider. Patients can also decline a cervical check unless a specific medical reason necessitates the examination for their or the baby’s safety. While checks offer valuable information, other indicators like contraction patterns, physical signs, and individual behavior also provide insight into labor’s advancement.