Understanding Vaginal Dilation: What to Expect During Labor

Question
how can i tell if my wife is dialating any more. she was 3cm dialated on tuesday and now she is having more and more painfull contractions. i was wondering if there is a way to tell for myslef or would a doc. have to do it
                                   thank you
                                         mike

Answer
Hi Mike,

Firstly make sure your hands are clean, then slide two fingers inside her vagina. The correct hand position is with your hand curled around like a hook toward your body. Slide in towards her bottom until you cannot go any further. It should feel like puckered lips. In the center, slide your finger in. One finger tip = 1 centimeter, two finger tips = 2 centimeters and so on.