Pregnancy Cervix Dilation Chart: Stages of Labor

Childbirth Education Basics, OB/GYN Training Basics
julio 08, 2025
Medarchitect

As you prepare for your baby’s arrival, understanding the pregnancy cervix dilation chart is key. The cervix acts like a door that must open wide for the baby to pass. Many expectant moms and families wonder how dilation signals labor and what sensations to expect. This article uses simple examples to explain dilation from 1 to 10 centimeters, helping you feel ready and work well with your medical team.

The 10 Stages of Cervical Dilation (1 cm to 10 cm)

Cervical dilation is the process during labor when the cervix gradually opens to make way for the baby’s birth. To help you better visualize this, we use common everyday objects to compare the size at each stage along with the sensations a pregnant woman may experience.

Pregnancy Cervix Dilation Charts

The image below uses common fruits as visual comparisons to help you better understand the size of the cervix at each stage of dilation.

This cervical dilation model shows how the cervix opens from 1 to 10 centimeters. It helps moms and doctors clearly see the changes during labor and better understand how far along the birth is.

Stages of Labor

Now that we understand how the cervix dilates from 1 to 10 centimeters, let’s take a look at how labor is divided into different stages—and what physical changes and feelings a mother might experience during each one.

Latent Phase (1–3 cm)

This is the early stage of labor, when the cervix begins to dilate slowly. Contractions are usually irregular and mild. Many women feel light cramping, lower backache, or general discomfort, but are still able to move around and go about their day. This phase can last for several hours—or even longer—as the body prepares for active labor.

Active Phase (4–7 cm)

Cervical dilation speeds up, and contractions become more frequent, stronger, and more regular. The pain becomes more intense, and most women need to focus through each contraction. Breathing techniques and relaxation methods are often helpful during this time. This is considered the “accelerated” part of labor, as the cervix opens quickly to allow the baby to move down.

Transition Phase (8–10 cm)

This is the most intense and challenging stage of labor. The cervix dilates rapidly to its full 10 centimeters. Contractions are very strong, close together, and may feel overwhelming. Many women experience intense pressure, shaking, nausea, or the urge to push. Once this phase ends, the cervix is fully dilated, and it’s time to begin the pushing stage as the baby prepares to be born.

Dilation (cm)	Fruit Comparison	How It Feels for the Mother
1 cm	Blueberry	Feels like light period cramps; sometimes you might not even notice them.
2 cm	Cherry	Contractions feel more steady, like a soft tightening in the belly, sometimes with lower back soreness.
3 cm	Cherry tomato	Contractions become more rhythmic, like post-workout soreness, and you might start to feel a bit tense.
4 cm	Strawberry	Contractions feel intense, like heavy pressure on the abdomen, and focused breathing helps manage the pain.
5 cm	Lime	Pain gets stronger, like bad period cramps, with pressure low in the belly. Staying focused on your breathing really helps.
6 cm	Kiwi	Contractions come often and feel very strong, like constant sharp belly pain, making the body feel tired.
7 cm	Lemon	The pain gets really strong, sometimes causing nausea or a strong need to push, and emotions can swing quickly.
8 cm	Peach	The transition phase brings the worst pain, like very strong cramps. You’ll need good mental support and ways to manage the pain.
9 cm	Apple	Almost fully open, with strong pressure and a tight feeling, sometimes you might notice swelling down below.
10 cm	Orange	The cervix is fully open, marking the start of the second stage of labor. You’ll feel intense pressure and a strong urge to push — your baby is about to be born.

At Last

Cervical dilation is a gradual process and every centimeter means your baby is getting closer to being born. It can come with discomfort and even pain, but understanding this process through the pregnancy cervix dilation chart helps moms feel more prepared and lets family members offer better support. Remember that every mom’s experience is different. There is no need to rush or be afraid. Relax, trust your body’s rhythm, and soon your baby will safely be in your arms.

If you want a clearer understanding of the cervical dilation process, we recommend Medarchitect cervical dilation model (1–10 cm) and cervical dilation display board (1–8 cm). These models realistically show each stage of cervical opening from early dilation to full dilation. They are ideal for educating expectant mothers and training healthcare professionals, helping everyone better grasp labor progress.