Dilation is the gradual opening of the cervix (the narrow, lower part of your uterus) to let your baby pass through. Dilation happens when you go into labor, and often begins even before labor starts.

There are 3 stages of labor. Active labor begins at about 5-6 cm of dilation. You need to be 10 cm dilated to deliver vaginally. After the birth, you’ll deliver the placenta. The cervix, which ...

Dilation is usually gradual, and there are many ways to encourage it, including sexual stimulation, laughing, and using an exercise ball. ... Dilation is the widening of the cervical opening.