Checking dialation

[PretzelPrincess]

I always thought this was done by hand and how many fingers can fit into cervix (this is what I've read). But I've been in hospital and having contractions and every time have been checked with a plastic tool-speculum I think. They seem to just open up the vagina and look up there with a massive torch. Is this accurate? Can they just 'see' how dilated you are? Confused

[PretzelPrincess]

Anyone? How have you been checked?

[PourquoiPas]

If they don't think you are in established labour they will use a speculum to let them see the cervix and see if any waters are coming out. It's to reduce the risk of infection.

[PastaandCheese]

Pourquoi is right. How far gone are you?

If you aren't sure of anything that medical staff suggest please, please just ask them to explain. I'm sure they will be more than happy to explain what's going on.

[PretzelPrincess]

Ah ok. I guess that makes sense. I'm 34 weeks and waters have gone early. Having inconsistent contractions so nope not in established labour

That's very true I should be asking questions about anything I'm unsure of. But when your in pain it's easy to just go along with what ever you've been told.

[PenguinsEatSpinach]

Do ask questions, but yes they are trying to reduce infection risk.

[snapple21]

Before 37 weeks they will always check with a speculum rather than fingers

[minipie]

Um... just to warn you.. my waters went at 34 weeks and I had "inconsistent" contractions... those inconsistent contractions got me to fully dilated and birth however! How "inconsistent" are your contractions?

You will need IV antibiotics in any event.

[PretzelPrincess]

I've had a few hours where they get stronger and then they quieten down again and I have a few 'background' ones. Last night I was checked and I wasn't dialated at all.

[minipie]

Ok, sounds a lot more inconsistent than mine. I didn't have any long quietening down periods at all... they just were never regular (I'd have 2 very close, then 10-15 mins with none, then 3, etc)