Understanding a Tilted Cervix in Late Pregnancy: Risks & Delivery

Question
I am 37weeks and 5 days pregnant and the doctor told me I am 3cm dilated and 60 to 70% effaced and they tell me the babys head is ontop of my cervix because of it being tilted and if that wasn't tilted I would be more dialated is that true and will it cause complications with delevery.  my first child I didn't have any problems with her head ontop of the cervix so I don't know really what to expect.  thank you

Answer
Dear Theresa,

There are two main tilted uterus positions: anteverted (tilting forward toward the bladder) and retroverted (tilting backward toward the spine). Typically, whether anteverted or retroverted, by the 2nd trimester of pregnancy, the uterus will pretty much straighten out. Most often if it does not - if it is "persistent" - the pregnancy will encounter other issues and will probably not go to term. Persistent retroflexion of the pregnant uterus is incompatible with advanced pregnancy. Yours may still be slightly tilted, but I would suspect that it straightened out considerably with the pregnancy.

The baby's head may not be spot-on target for putting pressure on the cervix, but usually this will rectify itself during the last few weeks. Obviously, there has been significant enough pressure there to dilate/efface you really well for the 37 week point. I would suspect that you will continue to dilate over the next couple of weeks and, though no two deliveries are alike, should not necessarily expect any differences from the first delivery which would be caused by your uterus.

I hope this has helped you and answered your question. I apologize for the day delay in answering... pressing family matters. I wish you well and a blessed delivery!

Brenda