An update on the opening of the cervix during childbirth

The cervix is a real lock of the uterus, and more particularly its opening will be closely monitored at the end of your pregnancy.

• Closed by the mucous plug during pregnancy to protect your baby from infection, the cervix will gradually dilate to allow your baby to leave your womb.
• The cervix opens under the effect of contractions of one centimeter per hour on average.
• Before reaching a complete dilation of 10 cm, your cervix will go through different stages called modified cervix, shortened cervix, and effaced cervix respectively.
• When you arrive at the maternity ward, the midwife will perform a vaginal exam to assess the opening of the cervix.