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Childbirth/39 weeks, leep 1 yr ago, cervix not dilating...

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Expert: - 7/30/2008


Question
Wondering what your thoughts are on this:  I've been having some pretty good (albeit false labor) contractions for last 2 weeks, mostly starting in evening.  Last 2 doc appointments put me at 1cm/70% and 1cm/50% (according to 2nd doc, i am only 50% effaced, one week later...).  My concern is that w/ my first 2 pregnancies my water broke by 39 weeks.  W/ this pregnancy, I'm going on 39 weeks 2 days, no real progress in the cervix dilating, had a LEEP procedure 1 year ago and I can FEEL a burning sensation on occasion around where I would guess my cervix would be.  I have next doc appt ths coming Friday (today is Wed).  My concern is that if doc doesn't break up the scar tissue i'll end up w/ a C-section.  Does this sound plausible?  I can't find much info about it on internet otherwise which is prob a good thing :)  I really don't want c-section...  Called Doc to ask but she seems unconcerned.  Thanks for any advice.

Answer
Nancy,

From what you're describing, I don't think you should be too worried yet.  The burning sensation could in fact be your cervix dilating and effacing as the scar tissue stretches.  It truly is common to not dilate before labor, even if that's not what happened in the past.


I can certainly understand your desire to avoid a c-section and I would make that fact crystal clear to your physician.  Even with some scar tissue, your cervix should be able to dilate on its own.  It just sounds like it's not quite time yet.


Best,
Catherine

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Catherine Beier MS CBE

Expertise

I can provide evidence-based information and current research findings concerning childbirth and pregnancy. My specializations include natural childbirth, pregnancy and birth interventions, fetal positioning, labor induction, choosing a care provider, midwives, homebirth, unassisted birth, natural pain relief, medications in pregnancy and birth, informed consent, understanding the risks and benefits of childbirth choices, doulas, waterbirth, childbirth methods, childbirth education classes, cesarean section, and VBAC.

Experience

I have been a childbirth educator, mother, author, public speaker, researcher, and birth advocate for the past 9 years. I am also the author of Giving Birth Naturally, a site dedicated to natural childbirth and pregnancy information. I publish evidence-based articles on pregnancy, childbirth, newborn care, and post-partum care. I'm also a mother of three children, two daughters and one son all born naturally. To learn more about what normal birth looks like, view the natural childbirth video of my son being born at home unassisted.

Publications
My book, Birth Outside the Box, was published in 2007.

Education/Credentials
I hold a Master's degree in communication disorders with an emphasis in child development. I am also an independent childbirth educator.

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