This is often referred to as the fourth stage of labor. On average, it takes about 6 weeks for the uterus to return to its nonpregnant size and for the cervix to return to its prepregnancy state. The latent phase of labor comes before the active labor stage. We'll tell you what to expect, from how long it lasts to how to relieve the pain.
Cervical effacement is an important step in bringing baby into the world. We'll tell you what it is and what to expect. Every delivery is as unique and individual as each mother and infant. Each woman may have a completely new experience with each labor and delivery. Using postpartum massage as part of your fourth trimester recovery plan offers many benefits to improve mood, breastfeeding, and sleep.
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Once your doctor gives you that estimate for baby's arrival, just keep an eye out for other signs of labor so you'll know and be prepared when it's time to go to the hospital. Occasionally if labor stalls or if you have certain risk factors, your practitioner may decide that there's a reason to induce labor and will take steps to move the process along. What to Expect follows strict reporting guidelines and uses only credible sources, such as peer-reviewed studies, academic research institutions and highly respected health organizations.
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This educational content is not medical or diagnostic advice. Use of this site is subject to our terms of use and privacy policy. Registry Builder New. Cervical Dilation and Effacement. Medically Reviewed by Sarah Obican, M. Medical Review Policy All What to Expect content that addresses health or safety is medically reviewed by a team of vetted health professionals. Learn about what causes your cervix to start opening and thinning at just the right time in your pregnancy.
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In most pregnancies, the cervix remains long and closed until late in the third trimester. At this point, your baby starts to drop down into the pelvis. This puts pressure on the cervix, causing it to thin out or efface and open up or dilate in preparation for labor.
Once labor begins, contractions and the descent of the baby will cause your cervix to dilate fully, allowing your baby to enter the birth canal and, ultimately, be born. Cervical dilation is measured in centimeters. Your cervix must dilate from zero to 10 centimeters before your baby can be born.
As you get closer to your due date, your cervix may start to dilate without you realizing it. Your doctor or midwife will be able to tell if this is happening when they do a routine cervical check. Some providers will check your cervix between the 35th and 37th weeks of pregnancy, when they do your group B strep GBS screening. Other providers will wait until closer to your due date, or only check your cervix if you are having some contractions.
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