field notes

Natural Birth & Female Health

What is Cervical Dilation and What Does Your Dilation Tell You in Labor?

Childbirth

December 6, 2024

an overview

What is dilation? During labor, the cervix changes in length, firmness, position and openness. Both anatomy and physiology play a role in cervical change. Physiologically, hormones like oxytocin increase, allowing the cervix to shorten, thin, and stretch. Anatomically, baby’s head or bottom sit above the cervix and apply pressure with each contraction. These changes in […]

Sierra

birth guide + scientist

[at]thesierraco

(for the primal + conscious woman)

northern ca

530 709 84 76