During your pregnancy the cervix stays closed in order to keep the baby safe. During labour the cervix dilates in order to allow baby to pass through the birth canal.
What are the signs that the cervix is dilating?
- A bloody show – as your body begins to prepare for labour, your cervix softens and releases the mucus plug that stops any bacteria travelling up the vagina. Seeing your mucus plug is an early sign of dilation.
- Cramping and lower backache – It is not uncommon to experience lower abdomen cramps (similar to pre-menstrual cramps) and you may find that you also get an ache low down in your back as your cervix dilates.
- Lightening crotch – this is a shooting sensation that can be felt in the vagina. As your baby’s head presses down into the pelvis it pushes on nerves which can cause shooting pains.
- Becoming more quiet and introverted – in early labour you’re likely to continue talking and moving around as normal/as much as possible. However, as your contractions intensify and labour progresses, you will begin to feel the need to focus on your body and your baby.
For more information on my pregnancy classes that will help you prepare for labour, please visit JustExhale and/or my Facebook page: Just Exhale | Facebook
