Doula

Answer: A - Effacement, or thinning of the cervix, is measured as a percentage and is done by internal pelvic exam. During pregnancy, the cervix is tightly closed, or 0% effaced. As the uterus begins to contract during labor, the cervix begins to open and get thinner. When it is tissue paper thin and the baby can easily pass out of the uterus, the cervix is said to be 100% effaced. The baby's position in relation to the spiny parts of the pelvis is called pelvic station. The opening of the cervix is dilation. Delivery of the placenta is also known as the third stage of labor.