How do the doctors check shortening and dilation of cervix in a wooman during birthing?
To check for cervical shortening and dilation during childbirth, doctors or healthcare providers typically perform a vaginal exam. Here's how it's done:
1. Preparation: The woman lies down on an exam table, with her feet in stirrups. The healthcare provider puts on sterile gloves and may use a drape to cover the woman's abdomen and legs.
2. Speculum Examination: The healthcare provider gently inserts a speculum into the vagina. This instrument helps to widen the vaginal opening and provide better visualization of the cervix.
3. Visual Inspection: Using a bright light, the healthcare provider visually examines the cervix through the speculum. The cervix is the opening at the lower end of the uterus.
4. Digital Examination: The healthcare provider then inserts one or two gloved fingers into the vagina and gently feels the cervix. This allows the provider to assess the consistency, texture, and position of the cervix.
5. Dilation Check: The healthcare provider checks for dilation by gently inserting a finger into the cervical opening. The cervix normally starts out closed and gradually dilates (opens) as labor progresses. The healthcare provider will measure the diameter of the cervical opening in centimeters.
6. Effacement Check: The healthcare provider also assesses cervical effacement. This refers to the thinning out and shortening of the cervix as it prepares for childbirth. Effacement is measured in percentages, with 100% effacement indicating that the cervix is completely thinned out.
7. Position Check: The healthcare provider may also check the position of the cervix. The cervix is normally located in the back of the vagina. As labor progresses, the cervix may move forward and become closer to the vaginal opening.
Based on the findings of the vaginal exam, the healthcare provider can determine the stage of labor and make appropriate decisions regarding the woman's care. Regular cervical checks help monitor the progress of labor and ensure the safety of both the mother and the baby.