CHECK DILATION WITHOUT VAGINAL EXAM

[Sam]

This method does not work well with women who are over weight as there is so much tissue you can not see or feel that well. It works great with people who do not have so much tissue.

[clairec]

Originally Posted by beautiful*birth

However, since I don't have the book, is there a certain position that mom should be in to check this space? Do you think it matters if she is lying vs squatting, etc.?

She is going natural, but we were wondering how inductions with Pit may vary. What do you all think....

I tend to do it standing up and it's pretty accurate, applies to induced labours too

[Joyce in the mtns.]

Wow... what a jam-packed thread- SO full of info!

Thanks all!

[clairec]

Another tip I don't think was on here - feel how cold the womens legs are, at roughly 5cm she wll feel cold from mid calf down and from the knees when coming up to fully - however this doesn't seem to hold true for OP babies

[636Jen]

I've been able to "check dilation" by observing mom. What is she saying...how is she reacting to the contractions.... when is she noticing changes....is she feeling any pressure... is she getting annoyed by noises, smells, touch, her husband, etc.....is she shaking or throwing up?

Moms give you lots of clues!

[vbacmom]

I've been relying more on listening to the sounds mom is making. Most women don't vocalize until later in labor and if I hear a grunt-watch out!