key term - Dilation

Definition

In the context of pregnancy, labor, and birth, dilation refers to the widening and opening of the cervix to prepare for childbirth. It is measured in centimeters from 0 (closed) to about 10 (fully dilated), indicating readiness for delivery.

Related terms

Effacement: The thinning and shortening of the cervix during late pregnancy and early labor.

Contractions: The tightening and relaxing of uterine muscles intended to help dilate and efface the cervix during labor.

Labor:

The process by which contractions of the uterus lead to birth, involving dilation and effacement as key components