Understanding Labor Progress: 5cm Dilatation & Contractions - Expert Advice

Question
I really need some advice because my doctor is fool I believe. I went to the doctor a week ago monday and had dilated 3cm. Today when I went I was told that I am now 5cm and that my baby's head has dropped down low. Along with being 5cm I am having contractions but not as often as the doctor says. I read that active labor is between 4-7cm. If this is so then why did the doctor send me home instead of the hospital? I read that active labor doesnt last long and this is my 3rd kid. What should I do?

Answer
Dear Shannon

What you have said is correct for women in their first pregnancy. This is your 3rd kid and in this situation we rely much more on something else called effacement of cervix. This is defined as the incorporation of the lower part of the uterus with the cervix in order to form the birth canal. Therefore 4 cm dilatation with no effacement in a woman with previous deliveries is not significant. However the descent of the head is a sign that effacement is starting to occur or will be in a short of time.
In a first pregnancy, effacement preceds dilatation and therefore a dilatation of 1 cm is significant.

Good Luck