How does your baby fit through your cervix? @credit: @thehonestmidwife Your cervix is part of your reproductive muscle and is attached to your uterus (womb). It is strong, ridged and tube like. The role of your cervix is to keep your baby in and bacteria out. Labour happens in stages and the first stage of labour is all about getting the cervix to move up and out of the way. Your contractions will make your cervix gradually open (dilate). This is usually the longest stage of labour. During the earliest part of the 1st stage your cervix will soften as irregular contractions help it to also shorten as it is pulled up and out of the way. This stage can last a long time - sometimes a few days. Once you are in established labour your cervix will have dilated to about 4cm and you will be experiencing stronger and more regular contractions which are helping the cerivx to open even further. It is really important in the early hours to keep energised and hydrated so make sure you are having something to eat and drink because as this will help with your energy levels If your labour starts at night, try to stay in bed snoozing if you can as this will also preserve your energy for the hours ahead. If your labour starts during the day, staying mobile alongside periods of rest and relaxation will help keep things moving. Once your cervix has opened to 10cm (fully dilated) baby will be able to make its way down and out into your waiting arms. #gettingyouready #havingababy #midwifeadvice #latentphaseoflabour #stagesoflabour #longlabour #havingbaby