(This post was updated in September 2020.)
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Birth is not just about dilation – don’t forget effacement
I was at a birth a few years back. When mom was admitted to the hospital she was 4 cm dilated and 40% effaced. Three hours later, after hours of long and strong contractions, it was time to evaluate her progress (aka examine her). The conversation went something like this:
Nurse (with a look of pity): Oh, you’re still at 4.
Mom: What? Still at 4 cm? OMG!!
Me (interjecting quickly): Can you please tell us how effaced the cervix is now?
Nurse: Almost fully effaced.
Me: That’s great!! You’re almost fully effaced! Yay!
Nurse (looking at me as if I had two heads): But she’s still only at 4 cm….
**********************
Twin Sisters: Dilation and Effacement
Now there are few things during that exchange that got me all riled up, but in this blog post, I don’t want to discuss the discouraging tone and language of the caregiver, or even her seemingly lack of knowledge regarding the cervix. What I want to share with you is the magic of EFFACEMENT.
I LOVE effacement!! I really do. Enough to jump for joy! Unfortunately, it is always overshadowed by dilation. Almost everyone knows one thing about dilation: ‘When you dilate to 10 cm, you can push your baby out!’ This is reinforced during the usual prenatal class, which informs parents about the importance of dilation, but omits to tell them that she has a twin sister who is just as important!
Why?
Because without a fully effaced cervix, you will not fully dilate.
The ins and outs of effacement
So what is effacement exactly? Its origin comes from the French word ‘effacer’ which means to erase. Here, in Quebec, it is quite a common word that we use a lot in French. Not so much in English.
The cervix is about 4 cm long and is the opening to the womb, in between the vagina and the uterus. As the baby comes down the birth canal during contractions, the pressure of the baby’s head on the cervix effaces – or thins out – the cervix. Sometimes, moms will efface and dilate at the same time, sometimes they will begin to efface first and then dilate later. No two birthing women are alike.
But both dilation and effacement have to happen before baby will come out.
How many times have I seen a mom at 9.5 cm with just a slight lip of cervix left!? Frustrating, I know, but baby won’t come out until that smallest of rims disappears. When it does disappear she’ll be at 10 cm and baby will come down further.
What I also find interesting, is that first-time moms will efface faster than they dilate, but moms who have birthed before dilate faster than they efface! How cool is that? With my third baby, I was 4 cm dilated for at least three weeks before giving birth. This is why 2nd-time births can go quickly – once you’re in labour, a lot of the work has already taken place!
Why should you care about effacement?
So, what does this all mean for you? It means be patient! Rather than just look at dilation as a means of progression, remember her cool twin sister: effacement. Contractions don’t just happen so you dilate. They also help your cervix soften and melt away. They also help bring baby down. And trust that once you are effaced, in the majority of cases (barring those rare exceptions) your cervix will fully dilate.
So, yeah, I love effacement.
What happened to my client? After her cervix was effaced 100%, she dilated gradually, reaching 10 cm several hours later and then proceeded to push out her beautiful baby. Just as nature intended.
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Sylvia
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Thank you for sharing this information. I am 37w4d and 70% effaced, but only dilated 4cm. The false labor symptoms I had at the hospital yesterday left me with many questions about how much longer this was going to take. I have had several back cramps and this is my second child. My oldest was born at 38 weeks. I know I am still early but it seemed as though yesterday was the day, but I was sent home after an hour and a half until my labor progresses more. I may wait until my water breaks to go back in.
Thanks again.
Thanks for your comment!
You are a perfect example of a 2nd-time mom who is dilated more than a 1st-time mom at this time (though I’m sure there are exceptions.)
It will happen soon. It’s a great exercise in patience and waiting for baby to arrive when ready.
We wish you a very positive birth experience!
Sylvia
Hey how you doing , I will be 34 weeks tomorrow I went to the hospital yesterday for headaches and dizziness. She checked my cervix and I was 50% efface but my cervix was still closed. What does that mean for me ?
That your cervix is opening! That’s great! 🙂
So Im 30 weeks today this is my 4th pregnancy found out I’m already 30% and 1cm does this likely mean pre-term labor?
Hi there, i am 35wks with 2nd baby , 4.5-5cms dilated and 80% effaced , i have been stuck like this for 2 weeks, we did injections for the babies lungs and procardia in the hospital weekend before last. Its like baby gave us a scare and is now comfortable but im confused as to why ots taking so long after things were moving so fast its like a good but nervewrecking thing. No water breaking and contractions have mainly subsided but the pain and discomfort in my pelvis and back is getting worse with soreness. My dr doesnt seem like induction is an option
My first was so easy and did great even at an unexpected 35wks with her, this is a boy. My biggest worry is his best interest , my dr quit delivering so i had to go with a new one that doesnt give very much information, quick to the point but did have good reviews and years and years of experience
I am 37 weeks and 3 days. Went to dr Wednesday (37 weeks 1 day) and I was 2cm dilated, 50% effaced, and -3 station. I am being induced in 6 days at 38 weeks 2 days. This is my 6th baby. Is this good progress?
I’m 40 weeks, 3cm dilated and have been for almost 4 days, 70% effaced and I’m having extremely loose stool. What does this mean?
6cm dialated water hasn’t broke what do I do now?
I’m 90% effaced but was only 2cm dilated while I was at the hospital 2 days ago. I don’t exactly know what that means and how long its gonna take before she gets here. I’m 37 weeks and first time mom. I’m so lost and my OB hasn’t really been to informative.
Hi Cheyenne,
That’s great news! it means your cervix is getting very thin and starting to open up! You are only 37 weeks so still have a few weeks to go. I wish you a very positive birth!
I’m on my second pregnancy. I’ll be 40 wks Sunday. Today at my appointment, my OB did the sweeping of the membrane which doesn’t seem to have worked. I’m 70% and 3 1/2 dilated. We are scheduled for induction. Hopefully baby comes on her own before Wednesday
I’m 30 weeks and 4 days pregnant I’m 1cm and 80% effaced will I make it to 35 weeks?
I’m 37 weeks and 2 days, 3.5 cm dilated and 75% effaced ftm
I am 36 weeks & 4 days with 5cm dilated and 60-70% effacement and steadily losing my mucus plug for a week. A week and 2 days ago I was 4cm dilated. My contractions for the most part blend in with my baby activity so I did not notice them much. Via machine monitor contractions are 6-8 mins apart. Now I get stronger long contractions but still not close enough to be 5 mins apart or consistent for my notice. So either my water breaks or my contractions strengthen while I have learned to ignore them previously with an active baby that rides low.
Oh this is my 2nd pregnancy too.
I have been in the ER twice in 2 weeks for labor contractions 4 minutes apart for a couple of hours. horrible making me scream contractions. My cervix is closed but the first time in, my cervix was effaced 50%. had a horrible OB last week (second time in the ER for contractions….not Braxton hicks) who didn’t bother telling me about my cervix effacement, just that it was still closed. I am 36w2d but measuring a week ahead. This is my second. First was born at 39 weeks. I am so frustrated and in pain 90% of the time and barely sleep 😭😭😭
My daughter is 38 weeks, first child, she is 50 percent effaced and one cm.
I will be traveling by plane to be with her for a few days before labor and after baby arrives.
I have no idea when to make flight arrangements.
Any suggestions?
How exciting Tonya! It’s so hard to say – she can go anytime! If you go now you might be there awhile before labour – it extra mom-daughter time is nice! Congrats in advance!
I’m 3 to 4 cm dilated and 60% effaced I’m 36 weeks last week I was only 2cm dilated and thick but now I’m not also I measured 40 weeks I have high fluid and my baby was 5 pound and 3oz at 32 weeks
I’m 31 weeks . 3 cm & 75% effaced
35 weeks with twins and 80%effaced with 3cm dilated.Received 2nd dose of steroid shot for babies lungs today and
Sent home
I am 39 weeks 5 days and am 2cm dilated and 90% effaced. I’ve been having consistent contractions every 5 minutes or so for 3 days now. Am I close?
Sounds like you need to drink some water
What ended up happening?! I’m literally in a very similar predicament and I wish they would just induce me.
I’m 37+4. 80 percent effaced and 2cm. But I go fast AND had a MAJOR contraction around 5am after hours of back pain and tightening type contractions. This is my third child.
I feel like I could go any second but they sent me home after 3 hours of no progression.
I’m at first time mom and I had my 36 week check up today !
My Midwife said that I am 1-2cm dilated and 75% effaced .
im 33 weeks and i been dilated 3cm for 2 weeks how much longer???
Your water may not break.
Hi Sylvia, very informative post as I was searching for some more information relating to effacement. I’m 40weeks + 1 day, first pregnancy. Went to the hospital yesterday because I thought my water had broken, but it turned out not to be amniotic fluid. I think it was just a lot of mucus discharge, as today I got a lot more again and I’m pretty sure I saw my mucus plug come out (long strip of a thick mucus). Yesterday I was told I’m 1cm dilated and 70% effaced. I’m hoping I’ll deliver soon as I’m getting anxious! Any suggestions? I’m debating whether I should get a membrane sweep or just wait more. So far no medical complications. I’m 37 yrs old. Thank you!
Thank you for this article! I’m a second time mom, with due date 15.5 months from first babies bday. I’m 37 weeks 4 days and was told I’m 50 percent effaced and .5cm dilated. What could be the reason for effacing first rather than dilating first with second pregnancy?
Thanks, Nicole
Thanks for commenting Nicole! Each body is different and there are no hard and fast rules. The cervix needs to efface and open, so looks like you’re right on track! Good luck with your upcoming birth!
This is my second pregnancy I am 2 days from my c section. I am having mono di twin girls. And today my dr checked me and I’m 80% effaced and 2cm dilated is it possible I go into labor before my c section?
I am very confused about the situation! This is my second child I am 38w+4 and I am 70% effaced but not dialted at all. I have been having contractions on and off for a few days now. I don’t have another doctors appointment untill Friday and I guess I’m just concerned on how long I truly have untill I go into labor and if I will know before its to late. How am I supposed to tell how long I truly have, and if I really am in labor? My water never fully broke with my first child they had to do a follie after a day.
I don’t think anyone can say exactly when baby will come! But your due date is close, you’re 70% effaced with is amazing and you’re contracting! Labour patterns, in general, are when contractions are getting longer and stronger and more frequent. If in doubt call your maternity ward!
I am currently 35 weeks and 4 days. Due date is april 9, 2021. I just had a baby april 26, 2020. I went into the doctor today and she told me I was 5cm dialted 60% efface -2. She sent me to labor and delivery. I’m currently here been having contractions. What does this mean for me? I was given a muscle relaxer which is now starting to wear off. It never really helped to begin with. After not feeling them in my lower abdomen I start feeling them in my back now currently they are in my back and in my stomach. My babygirl is posterior (not sure what that means) my midwives are all out for spring break. The RNS here really don’t know much. Please educate me lol.
Very nice article.Am in my 38 week and 0% effaced , am in a confusion about whether to wait or go for c-section. This is my first pregnancy and i have been active through out my pregnancy.
Thank you Kavya!
I assume you’ve discussed cesarean vs vaginal with your caregiver? Here, in Montreal, unless you have medical issues or have had a cesarean before, elective cesareans are not allowed. Maybe this is not the case where you live. It’s very normal for the cervix to be closed and not effaced at 38 weeks. Patience is key. In my opinion, this is not a reason for a cesarean as nothing is wrong. But talk to your Dr and rule out any issues!
Hi im 36 weeks with baby #9 checked to day 70% effaced and dialated to a three. I’m so ready but I also know we need to hold off for at least another week. My concern is going into labor early.
Wow! Congratulations on baby #9 Jen! Hopefully baby will stay put for a bit longer! Wishing you an amazing birth.
Hi! Love reading this. I’m 37 weeks and 50% effaced. I know it’s still early so I’m not stressing but I would love your feedback on VBACing mamas. My first son was and induction and subsequent C-section. Im attempting a VBAC and don’t know if I should consider this my first or second. My first son never engaged and after the induction I progressed to 6cm before the C-section.
Great explanation! I am 37+3 with number 5 and every birth is totally different. My last one was a precipitous birth so my doctors have warned to expect that again. I was 2cm dilated with him and slowly effacing for about a month. When he was ready he came. I used self hypnosis and it was a very beautiful experience. Never quite felt like a superhero before ❤️.
Thank you for sharing! What a beautiful story!
I wish you another beautiful birth.
Hey there. I am 37 weeks with twins. 2cm dilated and 100% effaced. How soon should i expect going into labor?
That’s a great question Jennifer! As one doula coined this expression: the cervix is not a crystal ball! LOL!
However, twins are full-term at 37 weeks (compared to one baby which is at 39 weeks) – so you’ll be meeting your babies soon.
Congratulations in advance!
My daughters 38wks. 70% eff and 1 cm dia. 1st baby. Think it will be before July 1st
I am 36 weeks pregnant 2cm dilated 50% effaced
I’m 37 weeks and 4 days I’m effaced 70% and dilated 2 cm. This is my second pregnancy but my daughter is already 10 1/2 years old! It seems like it’s taking forever! But I was at the dr yesterday morning and was 50% then went to the hospital with contractions and was 70% I hope this moves quickly
Hi Ginny!
Maybe you’ve had your baby already! If not, sounds like you’re right on track and baby will come soon. Have a beautiful birth!
I’m Stuck at 4 cm & 60 effective 😩 been here for 3 weeks now my due date in 26 more days !! Pain got worse and contractions! 😢😢😢 hopefully I have my baby before the 22th
Hi. Am 40+3 weeks pregnant. Am uneffaced but 2cm dilated with my 2nd pregnancy.. indusion started. worried more..
Hello! Second time mom at 39 +2 and am 75% effaced and 1 cm. What can I do to speed things along? thanks!!
Sex and walking
Hello I just got checked today and I’m 75% effaced but still dilated at a 3 and have been there for about 3 weeks now. my due date is this friday on may 29th and I’m trying to attempt another vbac with this baby. This is my 4th pregnancy my 1st 2 were csection babys with my first being an emergency one and 2nd one being scheduled due to vbacs being illegal in my home town. My 3rd was a successful vbac out of state and now wanting to attempt another with this one but getting very discouraged due to the fact that I’ve never gone past 39 weeks with any of my pregnancies and vbacs are less successful after 40 weeks along
Hi Cassi!
Thanks for sharing your story! It’s so empowering to hear positive VBAC stories. Today is your due date and I perhaps baby has already made an appearance, and if not stay positive – some babies take longer than 39 weeks. They are all different. Sending you positive vibes!
This is my 3rd pregnancy. We’re 39 weeks and 5 days, but only 2cm and 50% today. I’m worried it’s going to be another long and arduous 20+ hour labor. My second child is only a year old and was born at 40w 3d.
hi! my due date is January 25th.. I am 38 wks and 4 days. I had my OB appointment yesterday and they said 1cm dilated and 80% effaced.. they said she is super low.. how soon / late should i be expecting her roughly? i’m very nervous.. first time teen mom… i’ve been exercising (walking) and doing stretches to naturally help labor start labor.. i’ve been having pelvic pressure for WEEKS. i have my very first real contraction yesterday morning b it none since.. hope you can give me some insight!
Not accurate I’m on my seventh pregnancy and I’ve had successful vbacs wit my other five after 40 weeks
I am currently at 38 weeks and 2 days. This is my second child after almost 6 years. Last Tuesday, my dr said I was 75% effaced, still not dilated. And today he said I’m about 50-60% effaced, and still not dilated. This seems quite strange to me. Needless to say, I’ve been having contractions for a couple weeks now and they’re getting more and more these days. I did have trouble dilating with my first child where they had to do the dissolving tablets. It took 3 before I would dilate beyond 2cm. So me not dilating this go round is not a surprise to me. But my cervix thickening back up makes absolutely no sense to me
Hi Sandra,
Thanks for writing! Yes, it goes to show that exams are quite subjective…I don’t actually think your cervix regressed. Perhaps the position of the cervix changed, or perhaps the Dr went quickly…but your cervix is effacing which is perfect!! Now, start visualizing it opening up 🙂
Hi im 33w5d with twins ive been at 4cm for almost 2 weeks but was only 50% effaced the whole time with super strong comtractions. Baby a is breech so her back is on my cervix… Was at l & d last night was still at a 4 but 90% effaced when the day before I was super thick… How long do you think I have left??
90% and 4cm!! That’s great! Twins usually come early too. Hope the birth goes well.
hello sylvia, 38 weeks here and 70% effaced, 1 cm dilated. my doctor asked me today if my cervix has ever been frozen, to which i replied – i don’t know. upon having my memory jogged, i remembered i did have some cryotherapy for abnormal cells a long while back.
been dilated only 1 cm for past 3 wks now, is any of this cause for concern in your opinion ?
also, THANK you for this very informative article. i really appreciate it
Hi Heather,
Thanks, I’m happy you liked this article! At 38 weeks, it’s normal to not be more than 1 cm. The baby can still be quite high and will come down in the coming weeks. Perhaps your Dr saw some scarring on your cervix, hence the question about cryotherapy. Here is a great article I found on cervical scar tissue.
https://www.bellybelly.com.au/birth/cervical-scar-tissue/
You’ll see in the coming weeks if there are any changes to your cervix or not and you can discuss more with your Dr!
I wish you a beautiful and positive birth,
Sylvia
i sincerely thank you for your prompt response, the peace of mind, and the article reference i will be sure to read
Hello Sylvia! Thank you for such a useful information! I’m in my 2nd pregnancy, tomorrow is 40weeks per US. I was in a hospital 4cm dilated and 75% effacement and false painful contractions on 7/5, dilation didn’t progress and contractions disappeared in 8 hrs, I refused AROM and was d/c home. I was told that I’m not normal and they have never seen someone being that dilated and not in active labor, I was told that this is a stalled labor. I cried all week after that. On 7/10 in my OB office I was 5.5 dilated, 80% effaced and false contractions again, was sent home and nothing since that. Was feeling so discouraged that something wrong with me. Your article made me feel better! Still feel that I will never get into labor! My both pregnancies were healthy and easy, I’m exercising, walk 5 miles a day, not overweight.
Hi Tatyana!
Perhaps you’ve had your baby by now – I hope so! It’s hard at the end of pregnancy, isn’t it? I’m sorry your caregivers made you feel that you weren’t normal….but you really are! I see this often. Your body is doing it’s thing, waiting for baby to decide to make her grand entrance. Wishing you a very positive birth!
Hello!
I’m currently 35 weeks ad 1 day. A couple days ago I had some painful contractions and called my OB, and went to labor and delivery to be checked. As of yesterday I am 75% effaced and 3 cm. I’m a FTM, and my only complication so far has been bad anemia/low iron levels (which wasn’t ever a problem pre pregnancy). I’ve had some painful but irregular contractions through the day, no water break and no bleeding today. They gave me 2 steroid shots over 24 hours for my baby’s lungs if he’s preemie. Do you think it’s possible labor is very near considering I’ve had random contractions throughout the last few days? TIA!
Hi Gracie!
It’s so hard to tell when babies will come! If you’ve given birth already, I hope all went well.
xox
1st baby was induced, then eventually born via c-section. Currently pregnant with 2nd baby. 39 w & 5 d when my OB checked me and said I’m 60% effaced. She didn’t mention dilation & was unable to do a membrane sweep. C-section is schedule at 41 w & 2 d so I’m hoping baby comes before that!
I hope so! Lots of visualization and surrendering 🙂
Im currently 37 weeks pregnant this is my first pregnancy so I feel like I’m walking in the dark, but I went to the hospital yesterday and they said I was 30 percent effaced and 1 centimeter dilated. I left very discouraged because I was getting contractions and I felt as I wasn’t progressing.
Hi Mariana!
Thanks for sharing. Well, things ARE progressing when you are 1 cm and 30% at 37 weeks!! Often women are full closed at that time – and that’s normal too. Patience is the key! Wishing you a very positive birth!
Effacement is key! Baby #4 (the grand finale) and 50% at 2cm. Currently taking procardia and had my steroid doses in case this girl tries to come anyway. 1.5 weeks til 36 🤗
Hi!
I just got back from my appointment. I’m 39+3 weeks. Dr said I wasn’t dilated at all but some effacing has happened. He didn’t give me a percentage and I didn’t think to ask! This is my second pregnancy. Am I looking at a late due date?
Sounds like your body is getting ready Crista!! So hard to predict when exactly. The cervix can go from 0 – 10 in a matter of hours! Or it can take its time. Have a wonderful birth!
Can true labor start prior to being 100% effaced?
Yes!! Many people go into labour and are anywhere between 0 and 100%!! It will be the labour and strong contractions that bring baby down and finish the effacement. Thanks for posting!
My comment weigh questions is a long one and something you might not be able to answer or feel comfortable answering from a medical stand point. I’m keeping in mind that any response to the questions would be possibilities and not how it would play out. So here goes..
I was admitted into labor and delivery Thursday, September 24th. I was there till Sunday evening. At that time I was 32 weeks along. Now, 33 weeks pregnant and this is my second pregnancy.
I was given medication to stop the birthing process being we were only 32 weeks along. Thank You, Lord, the medication worked. I was sent home from labor and delivery at 4 cm dilated and 40% effaced.
I’m currently bed rested with our first child being 2 years old and running around full of energy, living in a home with 2 flights of stairs and my husband going back to work Monday. In which he will be gone a week-2 weeks at a time out of state with work. Which is where I think my questions derive from…
It truly is a completely different experience than with our first child! (Born at 38 1/2) I waited with her from 5:30 am, contractions started, till around 11 am to go to the er. By the time I left, there were no breaks in the contractions. I was given an epideral which slowed the process down, (which also gave my husband time to get there from 6 hours away with work and our family, which all live 5+ hours away!) I started pushing just a little after 4 pm and out she came at 5:10 pm!!
With this pregnancy, I was told our goal is to “try to keep her in till 35 weeks”.
*How likely is it, hypothetically speaking, that I could be able to keep her in till full term, or just 35 weeks?
*In reality, what am I truly looking at with how “bed rested” I need to be?
Keeping in mind, with properly caring for our 2 year and two flights of stairs in our home, I’m constantly going and doing like before just less often and not picking up as much nor as heavy. Also, I’m STILL having contractions sporadically throughout each day and have been since leaving L&D.
I think I just want peace of mind knowing that this is even possible. I feel like I’m having to make a choice… Either I can care for our 2 year old the way a momma should and keep our home up and running. Which sounds like it puts our second daughter at risk coming early and not putting her health priority.
Or, I can be bed rested and pay someone else to come in to help (IF I could find someone and not that we can afford it.) to do the daily routine for me and not be the one fully taking care of our 1st daughter, in order to put the pregnancy priority. BUT would this even be worth it, would she still come early, how likely is bed resting going to keep her in till 35-40 weeks?
HELP from a desperate mom!!
This is my second pregnancy. I am currently 40 weeks + 2 days. Today I saw the OB and he said I was 2cm dilated but not effaced at all and he was unable to reach my membranes to do a sweep. I return at 41 weeks for fetal monitoring but am discouraged that I will need to be induced most likely. My daughter came at 40+5 on her own!
My first was 41 weeks. My second 42 weeks. Everyone is different. Sounds like your babies take a bit longer to be ready like mine. Good luck.
I’m 34 weeks and 2cm dilated and 80% should I possibly plan for an early arrival
Hi Courtney!
I once had a client who was 31 weeks and already 2cm – we prepared her for the possibility of a premature delivery and in the end, had to prepare for induction for post-dates!! We just never know. Enjoy these last weeks 🙂
Wishing you a positive birth!
This has helped me so much! I am a first time mom and kept waiting to hear about dilation and got slightly disappointed when I found out today at 39 +3 I was not even 1cm dilated but 50% effaced. I feel much better knowing my progress is great and it doesn’t mean that I will need any induction.
Just saw my OB. I’m 38 weeks and no progress whatsoever- no effacement, no dilation. They did pick up irregular contractions on the non-stress test (though I haven’t been feeling those). Since I’m advanced maternal age (36 years old) they are scheduling an induction a few days past my due date. I really don’t want that. I’m being closely monitored and having no complications. I’m active and healthy. I’m still running everyday! Is there anything I can do to help this dilation and effacement process? Is it normal to be making no progress still?
Thanks !!
Im just over 38 weeks with no dilation and no effacement. It’s my first pregnancy. Since I’m 36 years old , my OB is scheduling an induction a few days past my due date. I really don’t want this. I’m being monitored closely and have had no complications. I’m healthy and active (I run every morning still!) is this normal- to have no progress this far along? Is there anything I can do to help the dilation or effacement process ? Is an induction based solely on my age actually even necessary ?Thank you so much 🙂
Hi Lis,
Walking is great to bring baby down. As for induction based on your age – which is not old! – I suggest you talk to your Dr and look at all your options! Many women have babies later in life – but all depends on your case. And BTW, many hospital protocols do not go past 41weeks 3 days for all ages which would give you and baby a bit more time.
Sylvia
I am 35 weeks, 75% enfaced. What does that mean?
It means your cervix is thinning out! In order for baby to be born it needs to thin out and dilate.
Sounds like all is going well!
Sylvia
I am first time mom, 36 YO and only 35 weeks but starting having contractions 2 days ago was checked I’m 80% effaced but no dilation was give 2 steroid shots in case he comes should I be worried that I’m so effaced so early or could this mean not a long drawn out labor I’m freaked out
I am 38 weeks and 1 cm dillated but my OB didnt mention anything about effacement… my worry is that my placenta is calcifying so I dont know if I should have opted for induced labor or continue on with the waiting game for another week…
Hi Vicki! Did they give you options? Your Dr will be able to guide you.
I’m 34 weeks and 50 percent effaced 2 cm with my 5th. My last 3 pregnancies have been past term. I’m questioning this one! I lost my mucus plug full thing 2 weeks ago and some more last week. I know it can grow back
I am 40 weeks today. I also lost my mucus plug today. I had my last OB appointment and was told I am 3cm dilated and 60% effaced. My contractions are 7-10 minutes apart but starting to last longer around 40-45 seconds. I’m so anxious to have my baby boy. Any suggestions on how much longer I have to go?
Hello! I’m a first time mom and we can’t wait to meet our little one. I am 38 weeks and 1 day 80% effaced, 1cm dialated. Am I close to labor?
Hi I’m 38 weeks first time pregnant only 1 centimeter Dilated and 80% effaced…. What does that mean for me?
I am 30 years old, second time mom. First birth was an emergency cesarean and a terrible experience. I am 37 weeks 4 days with baby girl number 2! My schedule c section is for next Sunday, but I am currently at 2cm lots of cramping/pressure. My doctor told me “troubles brewing” as if baby wants to arrive early. She did not mention my effacement, but said my cervix is very soft and she had expected it to be much thicker. She told me if I reach 3cm it’s best to deliver baby for safety reasons. However, I don’t know when to go to ER! She said when my contractions are 8 mins apart, but I’m just currently feeling loads of pressure and cramping with few spells of a hardening abdomen. I am unsure of what to do and I do not want to put baby or me at risk of potential danger. I am trying to listen to my body, but I seem as though to second guess myself in going to ER. I don’t have another appointment for 4 days and I’m not sure if I’ll make it until then.
I am currently 38 weeks been having strong contractions and I’m dialate 3cm and 60%. What can I do to start my process going. I’ve been in and out the hospital every week.
Hello, im 35+4 weeks , 60% effaced and 1cm, its my second pregnancy. I had my first at 39 weeks. I have a very delicate uterus as it contracts with any movement, or stress … is there any way of knowing if i will go into labour before 37 weeks?
Unfortunately no! If you are having lots of contractions, it could make things go faster.
I’m 80% effaced and 1cm dilated. Also I turn 36 weeks tomorrow. Could I have an early labor and delivery?
I wish you I could say!! The cervix is not a crystal ball. You may birth soon, or you maybe not.
But, the cervix is effacing and dilating which is great!
Happy birthing!
My Daughter-in-law is overdue 3 days with her first baby. I enjoyed reading the comments and advice on this post.
What about being 28 weeks 100% effaced and 1cm dilated?? Is this common??
I’ve been having contractions off and on for days now , my cervix is now 80% effaced and dilated to a finger tip. But has been exhausting. I’m 34 weeks so trying to keep baby in for longer but I’ve progressed this fast in 3 days
Hi Sylvia, I am 35w 5d and my cervix is 80% effaced 1 cm dilated. I had light bloody mucus yesterday. How soon should I expect labor to begin? Will the baby come early?
I’m on my seventh pregnancy and just had a baby 3/27/2021 I’m 38 weeks and 70% and 3 cm and constant contractions and loose bowels and mucus plug passed some of it haven’t been to the hospital don’t wanna get sent home so I just wait I do have an appointment tomorrow do you think it’s time
I’m 38 weeks with zero effaced. I’m so tired and ready for baby to come… any tips?
Is it possible to be 90% effaced and dilated to 10?
I am 37weeks & 5days with my 4th and I went to the Dr Monday and was told I’m about 1.5 cm dilated and 70% effaced but I’ve been having diarrhea since then as well as losing some of my mucus plug along with back cramps and contractions but they’re not close or too painful so I’m hoping I will be going in soon 🤞🏽🙏🏽