Cervical Effacement

As labor nears, the fetus’s head drops down into the pelvis and pushes against the cervix. The cervix begins to thin (efface) and open (dilate), sometimes over a few weeks.

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Medical review

Adam Husney MDKathleen Romito MDKirtly Jones MD

Last Updated

05/29/2019

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This information does not replace the advice of a doctor. Healthwise, Incorporated, disclaims any warranty or liability for your use of this information. Your use of this information means that you agree to the Terms of Use. Learn how we develop our content.

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Cervical Effacement

Cervical effacement

As labor nears, the fetus’s head drops down into the pelvis and pushes against the cervix. The cervix begins to thin (efface) and open (dilate), sometimes over a few weeks.

Current as ofMay 29, 2019

Author: Healthwise Staff
Kathleen Romito, MD – Family Medicine
Adam Husney, MD – Family Medicine
Kirtly Jones, MD – Obstetrics and Gynecology, Reproductive Endocrinology

This information does not replace the advice of a doctor. Healthwise, Incorporated, disclaims any warranty or liability for your use of this information. Your use of this information means that you agree to the Terms of Use. Learn how we develop our content.

Share this article

Article Info

Author

Medical review

Adam Husney MDKathleen Romito MDKirtly Jones MD

Last Updated

05/29/2019

Legal

This information does not replace the advice of a doctor. Healthwise, Incorporated, disclaims any warranty or liability for your use of this information. Your use of this information means that you agree to the Terms of Use. Learn how we develop our content.