What it means
As labor goes on, contractions open (dilate) the cervix so the baby can pass into the birth canal. It is checked by a vaginal exam and measured from closed (0 cm) to fully dilated (10 cm). It happens together with effacementih-FAYS-mentThe thinning and shortening of the cervix as labor approaches and goes on, measured from 0 to 100 percent.Full entry , the thinning of the cervix. Active labor usually begins at about 6 cm.
For the nurse
Chart dilation, effacement and the baby's station with each exam. Avoid vaginal exams when there is unexplained vaginal bleeding, until the placenta's location is known.
At a glance
| Also written | cervical dilatation |
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Related terms
cervix
The narrow lower end of the uterus, which opens into the vagina.
labor
The process of childbirth, from the start of regular contractions that open the cervix to the delivery of the baby and placenta.
effacement
The thinning and shortening of the cervix as labor approaches and goes on, measured from 0 to 100 percent.