Does Dilation Mean Anything?

Dilating to 1 centimeter does not necessarily mean that labor is only hours or days away. ... When the opening of the cervix starts to widen, this is called dilation, and it is one sign that labor is approaching. Dilation is typically measured in centimeters (cm). During active labor, the cervix fully dilates to 10 cm.

Does being dilated mean anything?

Dilatation means that the cervix opens. As labor nears, the cervix may start to thin or stretch (efface) and open (dilate). This prepares the cervix for the baby to pass through the birth canal (vagina).

Does dilation before labor mean anything?

When your cervix is 1 cm dilated, it means your body is preparing for labor, or is in the very early stages of labor. It's impossible to know how quickly your cervix will dilate further. It could be a matter of hours. But it could also take a few days, or even weeks.