Effacement and Dilation: What You Need to Know at 39 Weeks

Question
Do you have to be 100% effaced before you can start to dilate?  I'm at 39 weeks and I went to the doctor today.  He said my cervix is still closed and I am 70% effaced.  How long till I'm at 100%  He also said if I was dilated he could strip my membranes.  Does that mean break my water?

Answer
Jacqui,
You do not have to be 100% effaced to dilate. Effacement is very subjective as one might say you were 70% and someone else might exam you and say you are 50%.
Stripping your membranes is not breaking your water. It is a vaginal exam where their doctor uses his fingers to pull away and stretch the cervix from the baby and it's sac. It usually causes contractions or cramping for a while and sometimes can put you into labor. It can be a rather painful exam since he is doing some stretching inside. It is very common for doctors to do this to help women have their babies sooner. Good luck!! Suzette