Dilation is the opening of the entrance to the womb.
It happens during labor.
Dilation is the process by which thecervixopens during childbirth.
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The cervix is the lower part of the uterus, where it opens to the vagina.
Once that happens, its time to begin pushing.
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How Dilation Is Measured
Dilation is measured in centimeters.
For most of thepregnancy, the cervix is closed.
However, as labor approaches, the cervix opens as it begins to prepare for childbirth.
When your cervix is fully dilated, the opening will measure 10 centimeters or about 3.9 inches.
Thats the same diameter as a large bagel or cantaloupe cut in half.
Its large enough for the babys head to pass through.
Most people do not find these exams painful, although they can be uncomfortable.
Checking dilation too frequently can introduce bacteria to the vagina.
Effacement vs. Dilation
To birth a baby, your cervix must be thin and open.
Effacement refers to how thin the cervix is, which is measured as a percentage.
Once the cervix is effaced, dilation can occur.
Symptoms
Dilation is resulting from contractions.
Thesecontractionscause the muscles in your abdomen to become very tight, then relax.
At first, these contractions may be mild and barely noticeable.
As labor progresses, youll experience more intense contractions.
Unfortunately, that can make actual labor hard to spot.
Some people experience complications with dilation.
If your cervix cannot fully dilate, your healthcare provider may suggest acesarean delivery(C-section).
A fetus born too early faces risks, including death and serious illness.
They may also provide steroids that will help your babys lungs develop in case they are born early.
What Is Cervical Insufficiency?
Cervical insufficiency is a condition that causes the cervix to efface and dilate too early.
Its the cause of about 1% of preterm births.
Summary
Dilation is when the cervix opens during labor as your body is getting ready for childbirth.
Contractions of the uterus cause the cervix to dilate.
When the cervix measures 10 centimeters, you’ve got the option to begin pushing.
Other times, the cervix may dilate too early, which may lead to preterm labor.
Your healthcare provider will try different treatments to prevent further dilation if labor starts before 37 weeks.
A Word From Verywell
Anticipating labor can be both exciting and scary.
Surrounding yourself with trusted healthcare providers and loved ones can help you feel confident when the time comes.
Most people will have a cervical check when they get to the hospital and before they start pushing.
Dilation can take hours or days.
It is highly individualized.
American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists.How to tell when labor begins.
MyHealth Alberta.Cervical effacement and dilation.
March of Dimes.Contractions and signs of labor.
Nemours KidsHealth.Treatments to prevent premature birth.
