How to Dilate the Cervix

How to Dilate the Cervix.
Cervical dilation occurs during active labor, making room for the baby to travel through the birth canal. The cervix dilates naturally when the body is ready to give birth, but when it's necessary to move things along more quickly, dilation may be stimulated using medications or mechanical techniques. Cervical dilation is best left in the hands of your doctor or midwife, who can ensure that the dilation is done safely and efficiently, no matter what the reason might be. Read on to learn more about how the cervix is dilated.
Method 1 :Undergoing Chemical or Mechanical Dilation.
1. Understand when the cervix would need to be dilated.
Since the dilation of the cervix happens when labor moves from "early" to "active," intervening in the process instead of letting it occur naturally is essentially the same as inducing labor. There are some reasons why a doctor or midwife might determine this to be the best course of action:
If you're two weeks past your due date with no signs of early labor.
If your water has broken, but no contractions have occurred.
If you have an infection in the later stages of pregnancy.
If there's a problem with your placenta.
If you have a medical condition that might pose a risk if you wait too long to have the baby.
If you're undergoing a dilation and curettage procedure.
2 . Know the risks of inducing labor. Inducing labor should not be done as a matter of convenience since it can pose risks to both the mother and the baby. Inducing labor should not be done lightly - be sure you understand exactly what your body will experience before you agree to take medication. Inducing labor increases the risk of these complications:
Having a C-section.
Premature birth.
Lowering the baby's heart rate and oxygen intake.
Contracting infection.
Uterine rupture.