how long does it take the cervix to dilate 5 centimeters? February 13, 2007
Posted by guinever in birth, labor, pregnancy.trackback
It takes a long time for the cervix to dilate 5 centimeters. It’s going to be many days or weeks of having Braxton Hicks contractions before labor begins just to get the cervix ready for labor. But if the cervix isn’t “ripe” for labor and your water breaks or your contractions start, then it’s going to take many hours of early labor just to soften and efface the cervix. When I say many hours, it could be 12-24 hours of having light, but persistent contractions just to get to 2-3 centimeters dilated. And then it will be a few more hours to dilate to 4-5 centimeters.
Before the cervix can dilate or open up, it must first soften. This thinning and softening of the cervix is called effacement, which is measured in percentages. Usually, the cervix is long, hard and closed. As a pregnant woman has Braxton Hicks contractions during pregnancy or in labor, the cervix starts this effacement process which ripens the cervix and prepares it for labor. As the cervix continues to soften, it starts to dilate as well.
You may be checked by your doctor or midwife as your due date approaches and found to be 50% effaced and a fingertip dilated. The next week you may be 60% effaced and still a fingertip dilated. The next week, your cervix may be 2 centimeters dilated. The effacing and dilating of the cervix can take many weeks before “real labor” begins. The more contractions you have before labor starts, the shorter your labor will be.
If you slowly dilate during the last weeks of pregnancy, then your cervix will be “ripe” and ready for labor. You may dilate to 5 centimeters after just a few short hours of labor. And if this isn’t your first baby, getting to 5 centimeters could happen very quickly.
However, there is another scenario. If your labor starts and your cervix hasn’t already done a lot of the effacing and dilating that I just described, it will take many hours of light contractions just to get to 2-3 centimeters dilated.
Sometimes, your water may break before contractions begin. You might stay home for about 12 hours having light contractions. During this time, you can follow your normal routine. Eat when you’re hungry, drink when you’re thirsty. You can even relax in the bath after your water breaks if you want to. After 12 hours of these light contractions, your cervix may only be dilated 1 centimeter. It may be another 12 hours or more before the cervix is dilated to 4-5 centimeters and active labor kicks in.
So be prepared for a long, slow early labor if your cervix hasn’t softened during pregnancy. So to answer the question, how long does it take the cervix to dilate to 5 centimeters? A long time.
What does being 2 centimeters dilated mean?
This article was very helpful. I am 36 weeks pregnant with my second child (a girl) and was just told by my doctor that I am 1 and 1/2 centimeters dialated and 75% effaced. I was happy to know that my cervix is soft, given what you say in the article about it being easier to dialate once in true labor. I had an emergency c-section with my first..he was huge. But since my daughter is so small, I am trying the natural route. Thanks for a good read.
I am 39 weeks pregnant, and I’m still not dilated at all! my cervix is not even ripe yet? Does that mean my baby will come late?
i’m due in a week and i am 50% effaced and 3 centimeters dilated about how long? I’m very tired and miserable. just want to know how long now and when to go in
I am 38 weeks pregnant and was scheduled for an induction this Friday (right on 39 weeks.) The doctor performed an internal exam today and said that my cervix is not ripe and that he didn’t feel that I was ready to be induced (so we have cancelled it for now.) He said that he could fit a fingertip into my cervix but that it wasn’t very soft. I was just wondering how long on average it takes your cervix to ripen or ready for labor? My first son was born at 37 weeks due to my water breaking and so this waiting is killing me!!
i am one week over due … my cervix is soft and 2 cm thin .. i am 0 cm dilated … how long will it take for me to dilated ? could it be any time ? i keep on having contractions too… two nights ago i had them every 6 minutes apart for 6 hours then it just stop! how much longer do u think i have to go ?
Does Walking really help you to dialate? I’m almost 38weeks, and I’m still at 1cm, but 80% effaced, station +1. My feet hurt so much to walk around, but if it will help me dialate I will, but I just wanted to know if there is really truth to it??
I am 33 weeks almost 34, I walk a lot and I went to the hospital the other night and he told me that my external cervix is open, but my internal cervix isn’t but its real thin he told he to just go to school and work and go home to rest when they tell you that what does it mean?
I’m 41 weeks and started pre-labor at 39 weeks. Most days the waves (contractions) are really full on, regular, close together for several hours on end, then I go to bed and they basically stop. I’ve worked so hard for a natural birth and now my midwife is talking induction; ugh! I wish that pre-labor was addressed more, as I wasn’t emotionally prepared for this.
I am 36 Weeks and 2 days pregnant….very tired and cant wait for this to be over. Is there anything i can do to occupy myself until the baby comes? Also I have had some sharp pains around my hip area….any idea what these are? Also i have had some menstrual like cramping at random times…could this mean i am getting pretty close?
I’m 39 weeks and 5 days. I’m was dilated to 2cm 5 days ago. My doctor however has not told me how thinned out I was, but I did lose my mucus plug I think, I had a lot of “show” for almost 2 days and then it just stopped. I had an ultrasound done 2 days ago because they found sugar in my urine, so they wanted to see how big the baby was. My ultrasound guy said that she was at 64% and the average was 50% and she was already 8lbs 4oz. My dr. said that she wasn’t worried though..if she lets me go too long, can that be harmful to me or the baby because she is so big? & also, how do you know if your having back labor, because I’ve been having a ton of back pain that goes from my lower back to the middle of my back and sometimes around to my sides. Thank you!
I’m 31.5 weeks pregnant with twins, I am 30% effaced and this is my 2nd pregnancy. My son was born at 35.5 weeks. 4 weeks ago the twins weighed at 3lbs and 2.8lbs. Should I expect them soon and are they going to weigh enough if they are early.
I’m 39 weeks and 2 days along currently. I’ve been having more than uncomfortable Braxton Hicks and period cramps everyday, constantly for the past 4-5 weeks. I haven’t been given an internal examination yet (as part of procedure at my hospital) but do you think all this ‘pre-labour’ is helping my cervix ripen and helping me dilate? They won’t check me unless necessary, so I’ve just been putting up with it until bub gets here. I’m very curious though! I’m attempting a natural, drug free birth so I’m hoping all this ‘discomfort’ means less work during the actual labour.
hi, i am 39 weeks and 4 days and i have not started to dilate or even start to really thin out at all, i have had 3 contractions in the past 4 weeks, I have been walking over a mile a day 3 to 4 times a week, I have very little discharge and when it is there it is just clear and shiny, I am just wondering is there anything i can do to kind of jump start this oh and this is my second baby and i was dilated three cm from week 37 on with her and i lost my plug a week before going into labor, but i also stopped dilating, i got to 4 and then i just stopped, they had even broke my water, they had me prepped for a c-section and then like 22 hours after making it to 4 i was at 10 and then she came after 34 minutes of pushing, i am just a little worried because i thought your body got ready quicker the second time around, Please any advice would be great,
I am exactly 37 weeks. I had an exam the other day and my doctor told me that I was 3 centimeters dilated however I NEVER even feel Braxton Hicks contractions is this normal?
My sis-in-law is 39 weeks. She had a viral infection last week and is recovering from the cough& cold. Her doctor has suggested that she be admitted tomorrow. Her BP was 140/100. He tried to dilate her externally which caused some spotting. Is this ok? He has also suggested that they will artificially induce pains. If this doesn’t work then they would go in for a cesarean. Please advise if this is correct.
my daughter 36 wks now has been in and out of hospital with contractions she is now 3cm dilated and has had all the mucus away what they call a show it stopped 24 hours ago and doctor says baby will be here shortly but how shortly i thought baby would arrive within the next few hours after you had a show.
my doctor said my cervix is dilated 3 cm and 80% soft.. what does it mean how much time will it take for my baby.. right now i am 38 weeks 4 days pregnant this is my second pregnancy
I am 39 weeks, one “good” centimeter dilated and 75% effaced. My doctor has scheduled an induction for next week, Monday. What is the rush? According to an ultrasound I had last week, the amniotic fluid is fine, the baby isn’t too big. I simply feel frustrated that we might be forcing baby to arrive before she is ready.
I am 35 wks and 2 days, and my doctor told me that i was 1cm dilated and 75% effaced, and i have a hotspot on my uterus. could you tell me what this means?
Hi Guinever,
It’s Tuesday night and I am 41 weeks. I saw my doctor today, she checked my cervix and said that it was as closed as it can be. She booked me in for induction on Sunday, saying that she doesn’t expect any changes by then but because I want to wait she’s willing to do that. I went for acupuncture yesterday and today hoping that this can speed things up but nothing as yet. I haven’t felt any contractions, not even Braxton Hicks during the pregnancy. Do you think that the acupuncture will help to dilate the cervix before Sunday or should I just prepare myself mentally for the induction on Sunday and a very very long labour that will most likely end up with a c-section?
I went to the hospital just yesterday morning and am 37 weeks, 1 day pregnant with my first. I was checked about 4 times and they told me that my cervix was 2 centimeters dilated. My question is how much longer(possibly) does it normally take to become in active labor? Doesn’t active labor means 4 centimeters at least?
i am 35 wks and 3 days, and my doctor did my internal cervix exam for the first time and told me “i am in trouble” because my cervix is totally closed and this could lead me to a c-section. Can i still get my cervix to be active by next weeks appointment ? What are the thing that can help me ?
When do you know when you’re in labor? I’m asking because I thought that when you’re dilated you’re actually in labor, am I wrong? My bag hasn’t broken, but the MD did say they felt the baby’s head. I am in early labor. I just thought about what I’ve read and to answer your question, I am in labor. I have been having contractions, just not real stronger ones and haven’t lost my plug. As a matter of fact, I was wondering if I missed it somehow. How will I know if I lost my plug or not?
I just went to the dr. I am 36 weeks and 4 days. The dr is planning to induce me 12/11 (week 38). She just told me that i am dilated to a ‘4′ and she hopes i can make it… Does the rupture of the membranes normally happen around a certain dilation? Last monday i wasn’t even dilated at all and this week already a 4… Just wondering what my chances are of making it to the 11th.
I am 37 weeks exactly and went to the doctor 2 days ago at 36w 5d. I was 3 cm dilated and 75% effaced. The week before I was 1 cen. dilated. This is my 3rd pregnancy. I have high blood pressure and they think I may have pre-eclampsia and are continuously checking my urines and blood. I have been having contractions and menstral cramping with back pain for weeks now. Should I be induced by now because my pressures are getting worse and I have been on Aldemine for weeks now 500mg 3X’s a day and it’s getting unmanageable. The doc’s have set and induction date for 38 weeks which is Dec. 10th. But I’d rather go on my own. What should I do? Is it harmful to keep letting me go on with the blood pressures getting bad again or should I have been induced by now? My pressure are 150’s over 100’s. With medicine. Please help I am ready to be done with this whole pregnancy thing.
Today I m 36 week 2day pregnant. Yesterday I had my internal examination and the dr said that my cervix is still closed, he couldn’t feel the head. Then he did my ultrasound to check the position of the baby (if the baby is not breech) and he found head is down (thankfully) but still quite up. Is it normal? What can I do to encourage cervix to soften/ dilate. This is my second pregnancy and m first one was a c-section. I m afraid that this would end up being the same. can u help me…thanks
I’m 34 weeks and 4 days pregnant. I feel very anxious and I have walked the warehouse at work like 10 times already. I felt a little cramp but most of all I feel pressure. My cervix bone hurts when I walk. For the past 4 days I have cleaned the mucous off everytime I go to the bathroom. This is my third child… My first was born at 38 weeks and 19 hr. labor and my second at 36 weeks and one hour labor. Both natural. What should I do??? I called my doctor and told him what I was feeling and he just said to come in tomorrow… but I feel like I’m dilating. Should I wait or should I have myself checked to see how far I have dilated?
hi 37 weeks pregnant and haven’t gone through my internal checkup, my doctor told me that she is going to do my internal check up next week.is it fine?
I went to the doctor today and he said I’m “almost” 2 cm dilated, I’m 32 (almost 33) weeks and he said I’m soft and he could feel the Baby’s head and then he said I would probably end up pre-term… Why would he tell me this? To worry me or just to prepare me?
hi
for the last 2 days now i have been losing a lot of big blobs of greenish color mucus i am guessing,i don’t know for sure this is my 3 child but never had this with the first 2.i have been having mild contractions come and go but nothing to serious yet. i went to the doctor last night but they told me my cervix was soft and it was effaced and they could fell the top of the baby’s head….just wondering could this baby soon be ready to come.i am 39 weeks today.
i am thirty six weeks moving on thirty seven weeks pregnant this week and been reading about the different contractions i havent felt any i have a very active baby and was wondering when its time to deliver would the baby itself will have me deliver faster
hi,
I’m 24 weeks 1 day pregnant. I had my internal examination and the dr said that my cervix length 2.9cm ,so if cervix is dilated 3cm then i need stitch. How can I stop soften/ dilate of cervix . This is my first pregnancy. I’m afraid. can u help me…thanks.
I am 38 weeks 5 days and went to the doctors yesterday. She said that I was dilated to a 3 and 75% thinned. I also tested positive to the Group B Strep so I will need Antibiotics during delivery. She said that I could have the baby any day now. I have been having contractions off and on since my appointment yesterday and wanted to know when I should head to the hospital. I don’t want to chance getting my baby sick because of the Group B Strep. What do you suggest?
i am on 37 week of pregnancy dr suggest me to do internal check up but my body is non-cooperative .she also told that the head is not fixed ….what to do ? can i get normal labour …….
I am going in my 36 week. I haven’t had a normal pregnancy due to having contractions since I was 30 weeks. I was put on bed rest. I go to my doctor tomorrow but as of Friday I lost my mucus plug and was dilated 1 cm and effaced 50%. How long will it be until I have the baby? Do you think he will be here before Christmas? When I went to my doctor Thursday I was 1 cm and 25% in one day I was 50%. What does this mean?
Hi there!! I am 6 days overdue and still not dilated. According to a sonogram today, I’m having small contractions. Due to the length of pregnancy, I am to be induced in 4 days. Is it possible to have the cervix dilated enough to avoid induction within these 4 days? I rather have contractions and go into labor naturally, then induction. I have been walking, tried spicy food but doesn’t seem to be helping. Any Tips Please??
I’m 39 weeks and 5 days pregnant. Went to my doctor on the 19th Dec and was told after an internal that my cervix isn’t ripe yet. Bub is due Sunday 23rd. My bub was measured about 3 weeks ago through ultrasound as weighing 7.7pounds. My doctor says if I don’t induce a couple or so days after my due date, bub could be well over 10 pounds if I wait for things to happen naturally. Meaning I could need c-section by then. I have since increased my sexual activities with my hubby to help ripen the cervix. I’m wondering if it would definitely help us go into labour at least before end of next week, or would I still need to be induced by my doctor?
Hi i am 37 wks pregnant and woke up with what felt like extremely bad period cramps and i went to see my dr today and he checked me and said my cervix was open. And i have a lot of pressure in my lower back. And it feels like i have 2 have a bm i have been feeling like this since 4am any suggestions would greatly help thank you
my first ultrasound says am due the 13 of January the second one said I am due the 20. I am not feeling any contractions as yet. Will i go into labor anytime soon ,this is my first child. My baby is very active she moves up and down very often will i have her easy?
Dear Nicole, I have no idea when you will have your baby except that it will be sometime in the next few weeks. I can’t possibly predict how your labor will be. Believe in your ability to birth your baby. Prepare for birth and relax. ~birthing blessings, Guinever
Hi, I am 38 weeks today with my 3rd girl. I went to the drs. and he said I am 2 cent dilated and its still back. What does that mean? second of all I never broke my water for my 1st, just had back labor,went in than I was 3 in a half cent. open had her in less than 3 hours. For my second was induced and they broke my water again than had my 2nd in 3 hours. With this being the 3rd do I have a chance to go fast again? I’ve had brix contractions since 6 months. How would I know when my water breaks or I loose the mucus plug? Please help me! Sorry for all the questions!
hello,
i am 39 weeks…this past Friday my Doctor said i was 3 cm and 90% effaced….she also said i would probably have him before my next “week” appt…does this mean i will DEF have him within a week? i had a no stress test done but in the @0 minutes of the test there was no recording of contractions…so im confused….please help…
thank you
I am 39 weeks pregnant. This is my third child. I am scheduled for an induction tomorrow evening (new years!) The reason for the induction is that my last two kids were close to 10#, and this one is measuring larger than normal, plus I was borderline diabetic. My doctor told me she can induce overnight for a Jan 1, 2008 birth, or do the faster method (which would take about 3 hours). Last Saturday I was 3cm dialated.
Which induction method would you recommend? My second child was induced overnight and came out just fine.
Hi there,
Im currently 39 weeks and 4 days pregnant. Been having lots of cramping and dr. did a check and says I am 2cm dialated but still posterier. The baby’s head is down. This is my 3rd pregnancy I delivered at 34 and 35 weeks with my last two. This is also my second baby in less then a year, my son is only 10 months old. If Im starting to dialate and having cramps this early is pre term unavoidable?
So sorry I meant 29 weeks and 4 days. OOps!
Hello, I just wanted to report back and say thanks again! My comment is “12. traceyhoyng - October 27, 2007″. I gave birth to my son 5 days later on November 2, 2007
I do think that all the prelabour I experienced helped me dilate. I had irregular contractions constantly for 3 days before I gave birth - stayed home the whole time and by the time I got to the hospital I was 4cm’s! The labour itself was ‘long’ as I went in at 6am, was still 4cm’s at 5pm and didn’t have him until 10pm - but I wouldn’t change a thing. Thank you again for your wealth of information and advice for all of us here. It’s a comfort to be aided by a positive voice
Is it normal for someone to not have contractions but dilated anyway i am 3 centimeters dilated and have not had 1 contraction. My doctor says that my cervix is very soft also. when will the contractions kick in
I have a 2 vessel cord and my doctor said I have a higher risk for pre-term labor. Also, my mom went into labor around 7 months with all her children. I have dilated 2cm in 4 days and I am 33 weeks pregnant. I have sharp vaginal pains nonstop. Is there a chance I could have the baby early?
HELLO HOW ARE YOU…
I AM 39 WKS PREGNANT AND HAVING TERRIBLE BACK PAINS AND CONTRACTIONS STARTING THURSDAY. I HAVE LOST 14 POUNDS IN 1WEEK AND THREE DAYS AND MY DOCTOR TOLD ME TO KEEP DRINKING SPRITE UNTIL THURSDAY COMING UP. MAYBE BECAUSE IM ON MEDICAID. THEY KNOW ABOUT THE POUNDS BUT NOT ABOUT THE CONTRACTIONS AND BACK PAINS. I DON’T WANT TO CALL AND BE DISAPPOINTED AGAIN
Hello, i would like to start off by saying i think its great that u dedicate time to to help and answer unanswered questions of those in need. Im 37wks and three days i was rushed to the hospital last night contracting only to be sent home. The doc said im 2 centimeters and not ready. I know it can take a month or longer to deliver but what do u suggest to speed the process.
My daughter is 37 weeks and 2 days as of today. She has had a horrible time with this pregnancy. She only weighed 100 lbs pre-pregnancy and has had morning sickness every day and still is. We went to the hospital for the third time last night with labor pains. They said she is 50 % effaced and 1 cm dilated but after 2 hrs of contractions @ 3 minutes apart and 90 seconds long there was no change. They sent her home to see if anything happens. Her back was hurting so badly that she’s actually in tears. Today her back isn’t hurting so much but she’s still having the tightening. Just wondering what your thoughts are. They said early on that as small as she is and her just turning 19 that she may go into labor a little early.
Hello,
I ‘m 37 1/2 weeks with my 2nd pregnancy. I delivered my daughter at 40 weeks and 3days. After a long labor and 2 1/2 hours of pushing I had a c section. My Dr. said she moved on the first push and was then “lodged in the side of my birth canal”. My
Dr. now says that because I pushed with my first delivery, with no success, that the chances of the same thing happening are high. i would really like to try and deliver vaginally, but I don’t want to go thru the same thing again. It was very scary. My Dr. also says that the baby’s head is very low. I am 1 1/2 cm and 0% effaced. I’d appreciate any advice. Thank you!
Thank you! I did have an epidural. Although it wasn’t a very good one. I was able to push with a squatting bar for quite a while, but that was the only alternative position I tried. I ended up spiking a fever and my daughter’s heart rate shot up. My daughter had her first bm before she was born. Which also caused concern.
Reluctantly, I had agreed to a c-section for this baby. My husband is very scared of me trying for a vaginal delivery. The experience of my first delivery was very hard for him too. But I feel like this baby can be born vaginally. Do you think the key is not having the epidural so I am free to move about?
Thanks for your time,
Sydney
i am one week over due date i had exam last week doctor told me i was 1 centimeter dilated i coud not sleeping night time. i feel very tired how much time will it take more
Hi,
I’m into my 15th week with twins and have had a Cervical Cerclage done in my 14th week. After this, on & off I had some spotting. On checking with my doctor I was told that the cervix had dialated a little above the stitch. I was told that I need to be horizontal on the bed to ease the pressure on the cervix. The babies are doing good. I kindly request you to let me know the following:
1. Will the cervix heal / hold itself?
2. Are there any medications to reduce the dialation? (I was not given any)
3. Should I be on any special diet to control the weight of the babies?
testing times. I would really appreciate your advice.
Warm Regards,
Poonkodi
i have been having a lot of pressure in my vaginal area and i lot of pressure when i stand or walk around, i’m 2 cm dilated and the dr said something about the crowning of the head but has not said anything about the thinning i am 38 and 4 days pregnant, my question is how many women actually have to deal with the umbilical cord wrapping around their baby because someone told me that if you feel a lot of pain down there that that could be a sign so now i’m freaking out about that. i’m not sure whether they are normal pains now or if i should rush to the hospital. as long as the baby kicks everything should be okay right?
Hi & How Are You? I was Just wondering if there was anything I could do at home to help myself dialate? I am currently 41 weeks,4 days pregnant and have not begun to even dialate…dr. said my cervix was still quite hard to the touch.Ive tried spicy foods,walking,pineapples,accupunctureThat was listed above although Im not sure if I am doing it right.I dont feel any tender places anywhere above or near my ankle….Ive been walking 3-4 blocks twice daily since week 38 but nothing has helped…can u help me????????????????????
My daughter in law is due to have her second baby about March 24, 2008. She is 37. Her first child will be 2, February 2. She had a C-Section with him. She is two centimeter’s dilated and told to rest as much as possible. Her doctor wants her to hold the baby for another 4 weeks at least. I am surprised that you could carry that long after being told you are two centimeters dilated. Any response to this?
I am 40 weeks and 1 day pregnant. my cervix is totally closed and baby’s head is still not engaged. i am going for a nonstress test tomorrow. this is my first baby, so my anxiety is getting the best of me. my docs talk about a poss. c-section. what do u think?
I have been doing things to encourage dropping and dialation. ever since last week when i first found out nothing was happening. I’ve been walking. i was doing squats. i had spicy food tonight. i went in this morning to have the nonstress today and they did an exam. i’m hoping that might stir something up. i’m going back on monday for another test and exam. they said, then we’ll decide what to do.
Hi! I am exactly 39 weeks and am scheduled for an induction in 3 days because baby is estimated to have low birth weight (10% percentile). At my appointment at 38 w 4 d i was measuring 30 weeks with the tape measure. I had an ultrasound and baby passed all of the markers, so that is why they decided to wait another week before inducing (I’ll actually go back for another ultrasound the day before induction). At this last appt. I was 3 cm dilated and about 25% effaced. Will I need a lot of medication to induce labor or could I be pretty ready in three more days? Do you think the doctor’s should induce?
Thanks Guinever for your reply! The amniotic fluid looks fine, baby is head down (but I’m not sure if she is low in the pelvic or not). I am fairly small 5′2” and both my mom and I weighed 5 lbs. 10 ozs. when we were born, so I feel fairly certain that I am just going to have a small baby (although hubby was a 10 pounder!!). At my ultrasound today I’m going to ask if it really is necessary to induce–I’d really rather wait. Especially when I read about how inductions tend to lead to more c-sections!
Hello-
Thanks for this forum-
I am 36 weeks pregnant and just told that I am 3 cm dilated. It is my second pregnancy and I was wondering if I should discontinue exercise or any other activities. I would like to keep the baby on the inside as long as possible.
Hi,
what are the main changes to the cervix in the first few weeks of pregnancy? If I am pregnant it is about 11 days in…. what should I be looking for in position, texture etc?!
I am 37 weeks and 6days my doctor told me i was 4 centimeter dilated when he remove my cerclage how long will i stay like this cause nothing change since my last doctor appointment. Also can my baby distress from me being 4 centimeter dialated so long.
I will be 37 weeks pregnant in two days. This is my second child. With my daughter I lost my mucus plug at 38 weeks and my water broke immediatly. I never felt a contractions before hand but my husband and I did have intercourse that day which may have helped. With this baby I lost my mucus plug two days ago. I have had contractions since then but nothing with a pattern or too intense. I was dialted 4 centimeters when I went to labor and delivery three nights ago. I definitly feel that I have dialated more since then. Is is possible that I could dialate more and not go into active labor for days? Is is possible to get an infection if I am dialated this much for too long if my water has not broken?
My daughter was due on Jan 28. 2008, was 95% effaced and 31/2cm dilated when at the doctors. It is now approaching her next doctors appt. and no baby. Do you have any pointers on how long this could go on. We have been waiting and waiting with excitment and now alot of disappointment.
Hey I am 38 week how can I help my self to dilate faster my due date is on next sat Feb 16
Hi Guinever,
I am 28 weeks along. At every appt., my doctor does internal checks because I am at high risk for
pre-term labor because of prior LEEP procedures. At my last appt., my doctor told me that my cervix
has shortened from 3 cm to 2.8 cm and that I am 20% effaced. She did not put me on bed rest however
told me to continue working and to take it easy. I am also checking for contractions twice a day and have
not had any serious issues that I am aware of and no bleeding. I am really worried that I can go into pre-term
labor soon and I need your perspective. She wants to check me at 30 weeks. Any advice? Much appreciated, Veronica.
HI:
My daughter is dilated to 1cm and effaced 50%. She throw up last night. Does that mean anything?
I’m 40 weeks and 4 days overdue from my due date (which was Feb. 3). During my last visit with my midwife (I was 39 weeks before due date) she stripped my membrane to induce labor. However; this alternative to inducing labor did not work. I’m 50% effaced and 1 cm. I have 4 children and waiting for my 5th. My midwife wants to induce me in my 41 weeks with a low dosage of pitocin. The reason she wants to induce with a low dosage is because I had a set of twins and had to get a c-section and then after that I gave birth vaginally to my 4th child. I’m not at all comfortable with being induced with pitocin especially at a low dosage only because I don’t believe it will be effective. And due to me knowing that when pitocin is not effective a c-section is the next option to delivering baby. I told my midwife that I wanted a natural vaginal birth and that I wanted it to be according to what I had written out in my birthing plan. Somehow I feel like I’m being set up for another c-section. My fourth child came in my 41 weeks just to put that out there. What are your views?
PS I will be informing my midwife that I do not want to be induced. I just believe it is to soon for the baby to come especially if the baby is not ready to be born.
PSS Also, is borage oil good for softening and thinning out the cervix
I am 37 weeks and just found out my cervix is just starting to efface. My first son came at 36 weeks, so all this waiting is driving me insane. I am having no contractions, just a lot of low back pain, and lots of swelling. Is there anything I can do to speed up the process?
hi im 39wks prgnant +2days and last nite i was gettin lower contactions, they seemed to get stronger and uncomfy, and i was gettin them for 6hrs then they just stopped! whats happening?
Dear Guinever,
My name is Shana, I am 39 weeks pregnant, I have horrible pains in my back, lower abdomen and my left leg is killing me with pain. Last night I had very strong contractions, very painful, however the contractions were very irregular and no discharge or no show was there. I went to hospital and Dr. said that I have dialated only for less than a 1cm and then after 4 hours of strong contractions they just stopped. Do you think that those strong contractions were a false labor and that I could be close to my labor day or baby is coming soon? Also, if these pains continue like this, do you think I should continue to suffer with the pains or should I go for inducement? And also, how safe is the inducement, is it safe for the baby and the mother, do you think it has a bad effect or can harm the baby? My Dr. said that I should wait until due date and then we will talk about inducement, but honestly I don’t feel comfortable forcing the baby out if he is not ready, but could it be that the baby just lazy to come out? I am just going crazy with these pains and want to finally have the baby out. Please kindly let me know. Please Help. Thank you.
Dear Guinever,
Thank you for your heartwarming support! I am walking it off, and taking a warm shower as well, but as you said I have to be patient. I am also taking evening primrose oil, as I read it on one of the messages. My Dr. said that I look ready to go and the baby’s head is down and all, but I guess I am impatient because I am experiencing these pains for weeks now, but only yesterday the pains in my back, my abdomen and my leg were stronger than before. So, do you think I should continue taking evening primrose oil and also how about raspberry tea, I heard it helps too?
Thank you.
Hello
I am almost 37 weeks and my due date is February 28, 2007. Needless to say, I am very tired of being pregnant and wish I could have this baby right now! Nevertheless, I am not inclined to be induced and will wait as long as I have too (this is my second pregnancy and the first one was induced). I have two questions:
At my last appointment I was 2cm dilated and 25% effaced. Just out of curiosity, I was wondering how possible or common it is to go from 25% to almost completely effaced in a matter of days? I know there is no way to accurately predict labor, but my mom has taken time off to be with me around the end of the month (she is an anesthesi-ologist) and I was trying to gauge how likely it is that I might go into labor before she can get here.
Also, I’ve heard you mention a few times that spicy foods, prostaglandins, and exercise can help to hasten active labor. With my first pregnancy I was in dental school and very active. I was almost 3 cm dilated and almost completely effaced when my daughter was induced and the whole process took about 3 hours.
This time around, I am home mostly and not nearly as active. I have heard many women say that each consecutive labor is usually shorter than the first. I can’t eat spicy foods because it gives me heart burn, my husband is hesitant to have sex since I am so far along, so the best thing I can do is exercise. I was wondering, since I am so close to my due date, can beginning to exercise on a consistent basis so late in the game truly have an impact on how and when I may go into labor? The logical answer seems to be yes but I figured I would ask since you seem to be very experienced in these matters.
I am very glad I came across this site - thank you for taking the time to answer questions.
Dear Guinever,
First of all, I must say that I’ve enjoyed reading your responses as they give a different perspective: the mind is a powerful thing. I am 38 weeks and have been experiencing lower back pain, similar to menstural cramps for about a week and a half. This is primarily in the evenings and while trying to sleep. The pain (while present) does not come and go in intervals, it merely lingers around making sleeping exceptionally difficult. I have heard many responses to this, but what do you think….are these pre labor contractions? the baby dropping? or just him getting bigger and pushing down on my cervix/backbone/pelvis? Thank you in advance for your response.
Hi, I’m Juliet. Just reading some of these messages have strengthened me a bit. I am due on the 18th February but I have been experiencing moderate to severe pains in my lower abdomen and back on and off for the past couple weeks or so. A visit to the doctor last Saturday told me that my cervix was still thick but it was open. What does this mean? Does it mean that my mucous plug has been removed? The Dr. also told me that she can just feel the baby’s head. She suggested lots of sex, but my husband is reluctant. I feel so tired of waiting sometimes and so tired of being tired. By the way this is my second pregnancy after 13 years. What can I do to help things along?
I’m 33 1/2 weeks pregnant, on 2-6-08 I was dilated to 2cm and 70 efface and having contractions, I was hospitalized and put on a magnesium IV to stop contractions. I was sent home after 72 hours. I haven’t had any noticeable contractions but i have been experiencing a strong stabbing pain in my vagina from time to time. Should I be concerned? Is it possible I will make it to my due date? This is my first pregnancy and I’m still unsure of everything that I am experiencing. Thank you for your time.
Dear Guinever,
My daughter-in-law is 2 days shy of her 37th week. She started to experience contractions 2 1/2 days ago and over that time, she has continued to experience contractions. She is now 50% effaced, her cervix is softened, she’s dialated to between 2 and 2.5 cm, and she is experiencing contractions about every 3 1/2 minutes. She experiences about 90% of these as what she describes as an 8 on a scale of 10 for pain. She was seen by clinic’s nurse this morning, and they have stated that there is nothing they can do for her. Are there any options to help this process move forward?
I have dialated 3 last Wednesday and I am due March 11,2008 this is my fourth baby this is my second time to dialated on my own my last child I went into the hospital and had the baby 10 hours later I just want to know why I have not had any contractions yet I believe tomorrow I will dialated to 4 when I see the doctor vagina pain that comes and go It really hurts when the baby is moving is that normal so do you think I will have the baby before due date
Thanks
hi i am 38 weeks pregnant 90% percent efaced and 2cm dilated almost 3 the baby is on -2 station and i lost my mucus plug a few days ago and i had my membrane stripped i…went to the the hospital yesterday because after the membrane being stripped i had alot of blood along with mucous come out they check me and said it was normal…now my question is what can i do to help me dilate some more…i am close but i seem to not dilate more?
I am 36 weeks. I have been having lots of Braxton hicks for weeks now. I had a Dr. appt yesterday and my first internal. He said my cervix was very, very soft but closed. I am a little confused as to what this means because he told me that he really doesn’t think I will go another 4 weeks with this pregnancy and to make sure I have everything ready now. He is very experienced so I want to believe him but I mean how soon is this going to be? I need to get things wrapped up at work and he has me nervous that baby will come very very soon.
I am 37 weeks and 4 days. This is currently my fourth full term pregnancy. My last two children were born at 37 weeks 4 days (so anxious today!!), after my water broke. My first child was full term at 40 weeks 2 days. My question is: I went in to for an exam and found I am “thinned out” soft, ripe and “ready to go at any time”, being a fingertip dilated. I was also told My uterus is very high…With second and subsequent labors I have heard labors are faster and sooner but I am wondering if past pregnancies foretell future pregnancies? Do I have higher chances of my water breaking this time as well a few weeks early as they have in the past, or is every pregnancy unique in it’s own way? I am very active throughout the day, and am hoping to speed up dilation. Is keeping myself active by work and walking the only surefire way? Thanks so much for your time!
~Dear Hollie, there are so many reasons why water breaks that it’s hard to tell if your water has broken for the same reason in all your pregnancies or for different reason and you can only wonder if this one will do the same. Getting adequate protein makes a strong bag of water, so does daily intake of Vitamin C. (so not enough protein and vit c can result in the bag being more prone to break) Having a posterior baby sometimes causes the water to break before labor, but that’s usually with an overdue baby (baby wants to be born, and tries and tries but isn’t in the best position for birth so the water eventually gives way). Water often breaks a day or two after getting an internal exam as a result of the exam.
To answer your question, I would say that every pregnancy and labor are unique. ~blessings, Guinever
Hello my wife is a few days over 19 weeks pregnant and had a Cervical Cerclage done. It has been in for a week and she is having a lot of pressure, and today a little blood. Is this the sign of something? This is our first pregnancy and we do not understand a lot of the things going on, please help us.
Hello I am 38 weeks 2 days with my second child, and 2 days ago my doctor examined me and said I was 90-100% effaced and about 3 centimeters. I have been having about 2 contractions an hour for the last 3 days, and yesterday I lost my mucous plug. Is there anything I should do to get things moving? I thought maybe I should take a long walk around the mall, or should I try the raspberry leaf tea? I’m just so excited I want something to happen.
Hello, I am 39 weeks pregnant with my 4th baby. As of a few days ago, I was 6cm dilated, 70-80% effaced. I am not feeling many contractions, mainly back pain at night and pressure in the vaginal area. Is it typical to be so far dilated and not in active, painful labor? This is far different than my first three labors. And what is the typical “rule” for dilation– meaning what is the point of dilation when they won’t let you leave the hospital?
My other labors have been 7.5 hours, 3 hours and 5 hours so I’m also concerned about another possibly quick labor, especially considering how far dilated I already am.
Thanks for your input.
Hello, in a few days I will be 39 weeks this is my second child. I have dilated only 2 centimeters; however I have been in and out the hospital with very painful contractions that are 3 min. apart and they last from 4 to 5 hours. I try to relax but the pain is so consistent. my doctor just found out through my cervix exam that the baby has piece of my pelvis pushed outward, that I can feel when I walk and it is very painful. So she told me to take red raspberry leaf tea everyday and that isn’t doing anything. So I am very concern about the baby and my well-being.
Hello,
I’m a first time parent, 37 weeks and 5 days pregnant. I went to the dr. today and was told i was 1 cm. dilated and dr. encouraged me to have lots of sex. I wanted to know if once you are starting to dialate you will still keep dialating and not close back? Also may i expect my mucus plug to come out anytime soon?
Hello. I am 36 weeks and 2 days pregnant, with my second son. Went for my strep B test today, and informed my doctor that I have been losing my mucus plug gradually, but no bloody discharge, its a water soapy like discharge [ could that be excessive vagina discharge, or my mucus plug?] Also; why is it my doctor will not check me because of ‘infection’ reason, but I can have all the sex I want? I don’t get it. O and is it safe to check my own cervix? Thanks a BUNCH!
Hi Guinever
What a wonderful and informative website! Makes me wish I had found it sooner in my pregnancy.. I’m currently 38w along and am not quite understanding what’s happening with my body as of late.
I went to the Dr. last Thursday and was at 50% effacement with 2 cm dilation, this recent Thursday I was at 75% and 2.5 cm. I know I could be sitting at this point for weeks without any changes but my Dr said she would be surprised if I made it to the next appointment. I was told the same thing last Thursday and imagine all the stress and frustration I experienced that week (and my poor husband too!) she said the same thing again at this appointment, I wasn’t too happy.
Lately I’ve been experiencing dull back pain with some sharp pains (mid to lower back) which only last for a second or 2, and then twice today stronger ones (about 7 seconds) on the top of my stomach. They somewhat feel like pins in my back. I doubt they are contractions since they are supposed to feel like tightening all over. I also have some period-like pressure and usually need to go to the bathroom shortly after.. is it because I’m having contractions or is it just my body’s way of telling me I need to empty my bowels? Last question: I feel the skin of my stomach tightening but don’t feel baby move, I’m not sure if it’s her pressing into me or if it’s contractions. Help!
Sorry it’s so long and many thanks in advance for your time!
Hi - just found your website. it’s great! my daughter will be 39 weeks in 3 days… first baby. she was told this week she is 5 cm dilated - was told 2 weeks before that she was 4 cm. she is walking quite a bit - not sure about the sex, but that sounds like a great idea to me!! she says she is sleeping fine! has felt Br. Hicks for sometime now, but not painful. my question is: is it dangerous to be THAT dilated for so long? isnt it unusual?
I am 38 weeks and 2 days pregnant with my first child. I went into the doctor today and she said I was only 1 cm dialated and 50% effaced, I have been pretty active in the past few months trying to encourage an easy delivery. Since I got home from work today I have had abnormal pains in my back and occasional cramping pains. It seems kind of weird to be feeling this way when she just told my I was only 1 cm dialated. Is it possible for a person to go from being only 1 cm to more in such a short time? I expected that being only 1 cm meant that I would most likely go full term with my pregnancy but I am feeling really strange right now. I know you can’t judge when it will happen, I just want to know the odds of going into active labor soon even though she said I was only 1 cm today?
hi i am 34 weeks and 4 days pregnant went to doctors on thursday did internal and told me i am fully effaced and 2 cm dialated this is no 3 pregnancy my daughter was born at 35 weeks son at 39 1/2 weeks last pregnancy was dilated 2cm at 37 weeks and 5 cm with waters bulging at 39 1/2 weeks before i had him the head is also engaged will i go to full term
hello i am 36 and4 days pregnant. i went into hospital 36 and1because i was having reg. contractions about 2 to 6 min apart for about 2 hours. the hospital checked me and said i am dilated to a 4 and i am 60% effaced. i was in preterm labor at 32 weeks and was put on procardia. i was off bed rest and off meds at my 36 week mark. i am still havin contractions but not real regular. do u have an idea about how long it usually takes to go into active labor being under this case? doc said baby is healthy and ready to go but will not do anything to progress anything. doc wants me to go into labor completey on my own since i am 36 and 4. i am ready now so what can i do to move things along? i am walking about 2 miles a day already. is the labor boost product anything i should try?
Dear Guinever,
I’m sure many people have asked you this same question but I am now almost 41 weeks pregnant with my first baby and went for a sweep on Thursday only to be told I was 5cm dialated and “should not be long”. I have not experienced any BH or back ache up until that point or since then. I have had a very small amount of blood 3 days after the sweep but nothing else. I have been told to stay at home and wait for the onset of regular contractions but I am now worried that I am still dialating without experiencing pain and my baby will come, very quick and out of the blue whilst I am still at home BUT at the same time don’t want to go to the hospital to be told they will admit me and induce my labour. My question is, is it safe to just stay at home and wait? I don’t want my baby to be open to infection or anything.
Thank