Overview:
Cervical dilation refers to how open the cervix is during labor — and it’s one of the key signs your body is preparing for childbirth. This guide breaks down the stages of dilation from 0 to 10 cm and what each stage means for labor progression.
🔍 What Is Cervical Dilation?
Cervical dilation is measured in centimeters (cm) from 0 (closed) to 10 (fully open). It tells your healthcare provider how far labor has progressed and when it’s time to push.
📏 Cervical Dilation Stages Explained
0–3 cm: Early Labor (Latent Phase)
- The cervix begins softening, thinning (effacing), and dilating.
- You may feel mild, irregular contractions.
- Duration: Several hours to a couple of days, especially for first-time moms.
- Tip: This is usually the phase to stay at home, rest, hydrate, and time contractions.
🔹 Visual size comparison: A blueberry to a small grape.
4–6 cm: Active Labor Begins
- Contractions become stronger, longer, and more regular.
- This is typically when you’ll be admitted to the hospital or birthing center.
- The cervix dilates more rapidly.
- You may need pain relief options discussed with your provider.
🔹 Visual size comparison: A lime wedge to a small egg.
7–9 cm: Transition Phase (Most Intense)
- Contractions are very strong, occurring every 2–3 minutes.
- You may feel shaky, nauseous, or overwhelmed — all normal signs.
- This is the shortest but most intense phase.
- Emotional support and breathing techniques are crucial here.
🔹 Visual size comparison: A plum to a large kiwi.
10 cm: Full Dilation — Time to Push
- The cervix is completely open and ready for the baby to pass through the birth canal.
- You’ll feel the urge to bear down and start pushing (second stage of labor).
- Delivery can begin once dilation is complete and the baby is well-positioned.
🔹 Visual size comparison: A bagel or a large orange.
📌 Summary Chart
| Dilation (cm) | Stage of Labor | What to Expect |
|---|---|---|
| 0–3 cm | Early labor | Mild, irregular contractions |
| 4–6 cm | Active labor begins | Stronger, more frequent contractions |
| 7–9 cm | Transition phase | Most intense, shortest stage |
| 10 cm | Full dilation | Time to push and deliver the baby |
👩⚕️ OB-GYN Tip:
Cervical dilation is just one part of labor assessment. Providers also check effacement (thinning), baby’s position, and contraction pattern to get the full picture.
