What is effacement ?

Effacement is the process through which the cervix prepares for delivery. As the baby’s head drops down into the pelvis, it pushes against the cervix and causes it to gradually soften, shorten and become thinner. This is what is referred to as ripening or cervical thinning.
 

The cervix is closed and protected by the mucus plug throughout pregnancy. As the cervix thins, the mucus plug becomes loose and passes out through the vagina. This mucus may be tinged with blood. The passage of the mucus plug is known as “bloody show “. You may notice the passage of the mucus plug even though some people don’t.

How is effacement measured ?

Effacement is measured in percentages. If your cervix is 0%, it means it has not effaced at all.  If the cervix is completely thinned, it is 100 % effaced. 50% effaced means you are half way to being completely thinned out.

How would I know if and when I am effaced ?

During the final weeks of pregnancy, your healthcare provider will check for effacement when you go for your routine prenatal appointment. Your cervix will usually efface before it dilates if you are a first time mother. If you’ve previously had children, you usually dilate before you efface.

What is dilation ?

Cervical dilation is when your cervix begins to open. It is expressed in centimeters from 0 to 10. Zero means the cervix is completely closed and 10 means you are completely dilated. You can  begin the pushing stage only when your cervix is completely dilated.