Dilation

During dilation, the cervix will soften, dilate (change in shape and position), and open from zero to ten centimeters. The opening can be divided into three phases:

Transformation phase

This is the beginning. In this, the contractions are irregular in frequency, strength and duration. During this phase, the softening of the cervix takes place and part of the expiration. If there are even longer breaks between the contractions, it can also stop again.

Latent phase

The contractions increase in frequency and come with a certain regularity of at least 5 or 6 minutes. The first 3 centimeters of dilation are reached and the cervix opens completely. The latent phase usually lasts between 5 and 7 hours.

Active phase

This phase usually starts around four to six centimeters dilated. The woman has regular contractions (every 2 to 3 minutes) that last at least 1 minute. These are powerful and painful contractions. During the active phase, the dilation often increases one centimeter every hour until you are 10 centimeters dilated. Your baby's head comes deeper and this sometimes gives you a feeling of pressure. This phase often lasts between 5 and 7 hours.
The total duration of dilation from regular contractions takes on average 8 to 24 hours with a first child and 2 to 10 hours if you have given birth before.

Pain

A dilation contraction is quite painful and you feel this pain in the lower abdomen, back, upper legs or a combination of these. A major dilation contraction can last up to 1 minute or sometimes longer. Usually, the stronger and longer the contraction, the more happens in the area of dilation. Read more about pain relief during childbirth.