cervical dilation and fetal descent during g labour and vaginal birth

Ever wondered what actually happens to your cervix as labour progresses? 🤰

This 3D childbirth animation shows how the cervix gradually thins (effaces) and opens (dilates) during labour, while the baby's head moves down through the pelvis in preparation for birth.

During the first stage of labour, regular uterine contractions help the cervix soften, shorten and open from 0 to approximately 10 centimetres. As labour progresses, the baby's head may descend further into the pelvis, applying pressure to the cervix and helping the process along.

In this animation, you'll see:

👶 How the cervix dilates during labour

👶 How the baby's head descends through the birth canal

👶 The relationship between uterine contractions, cervical dilation and fetal descent

👶 How the body prepares for vaginal birth

Does your cervix need to dilate to 10cm before you can give birth?

For a vaginal birth, the cervix generally needs to be fully dilated, which is approximately 10cm. However, every labour is different. Cervical dilation and fetal descent don't always happen at a steady or predictable rate.

Understanding the stages of labour, cervical dilation, effacement and fetal station can help you feel more informed about what happens during childbirth.

👩🏽‍⚕️ About Midwife Marley

I'm Marley, a UK registered midwife, antenatal educator and author. I share evidence-informed pregnancy, labour, birth and postnatal education to help expectant parents better understand their bodies and make informed choices.

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This animation is a simplified educational representation of labour and childbirth.