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Expert Q&A

	By Kelly Camden Certified Doula

I am currently 29 weeks pregnant and already 50 percent effaced. Does this mean my baby will be born premature?

Myles' Textbook for Midwives states, "Theoretically, effacement or taking up of the cervix normally occurs in the primigravida (first time mother) during the last two weeks of pregnancy but does not usually take place in the multigravida (women who have already given birth) until labor begins."

Most women do not experience effacement until labor is near or in progress. Effacement is the thinning of the cervix, which is normally 2 to 3 centimeters in length.

Thoroughly reviewing your medical history, as well as the current condition of the cervix can help your provider assess whether or not your cervix has been affected by a previous medical procedure or early labor. This information will determine how your provider will want to treat the situation.

It is possible that your baby will be born early if cervical changes are occurring. Please see your care provider regularly and be sure to report any changes that you feel.

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