Has Anyone Gone Into Labor After a Cervical Exam?
As I sat in the doctor’s office, my mind was racing. I was 39 weeks pregnant, and this was my first cervical exam. The doctor gently inserted her fingers, and I winced slightly at the sensation. To my surprise, she announced that I was already 3 centimeters dilated and 70% effaced. “You could go into labor tonight,” she said, “or it could be weeks from now.” I couldn’t believe it! I had been waiting for this moment for nine long months, and now it seemed like it was finally here.
As I drove home, I couldn’t help but wonder if anyone else had gone into labor after a cervical exam. I had heard stories about women who had their babies within hours of being checked, and I couldn’t help but hope that I would be one of them.
What Happens During a Cervical Exam?
A cervical exam is a procedure in which the doctor checks the cervix for dilation and effacement. Dilation refers to the opening of the cervix, and effacement refers to the thinning of the cervix. Cervical exams are typically performed during pregnancy to assess the progress of labor.
How Can a Cervical Exam Trigger Labor?
There are a few ways that a cervical exam can trigger labor:
- Stripping the membranes: The doctor may gently sweep her finger around the edge of the cervix to separate the membranes from the uterine wall. This can release prostaglandins, which are hormones that cause the cervix to ripen and dilate.
- Stimulating the cervix: The act of inserting the doctor’s fingers into the cervix can stimulate the nerves in the cervix, which can also lead to the release of prostaglandins.
- Breaking the water: In some cases, the doctor may accidentally break the water during a cervical exam. This can cause labor to start immediately.
How Long After a Cervical Exam Will I Go Into Labor?
There is no way to know for sure how long after a cervical exam you will go into labor. Some women go into labor within hours, while others may not go into labor for weeks or even months. However, if you are already dilated and effaced, you are more likely to go into labor soon.
Tips for Going Into Labor After a Cervical Exam
If you are hoping to go into labor after a cervical exam, there are a few things you can do:
- Stay active: Walking, bouncing on a birth ball, or doing other light exercise can help to keep your labor moving.
- Eat spicy foods: Spicy foods can help to stimulate the release of prostaglandins.
- Have sex: Semen contains prostaglandins, so having sex can help to ripen the cervix and start labor.
- Take a warm bath: A warm bath can help to relax the muscles in the cervix and promote dilation.
- Get a massage: A massage can help to stimulate the nerves in the cervix and release prostaglandins.
Conclusion
Going into labor after a cervical exam is not a guarantee, but it is possible. If you are hoping to start labor soon, there are a few things you can do to increase your chances. However, it is important to remember that every woman is different, and there is no way to know for sure when you will go into labor.
Are you interested in learning more about labor and delivery?
Here are some additional resources that you may find helpful:
