Understanding Cervical Dilation: What to Expect During Labor

Question
May 18, 2004 was my first day of my period. I have 2 kids 4 & 2. I am 23 yrs. My question is how can i tell if i am dilating with out going to the Dr.

Answer
At 38 weeks gestation, you can start to go into labor at any time. There is no way for you to know when and if you are starting to dilate your cervix. If you start to have contractions every 6 minutes (at the level of your belly button) from the beginning of one contraction to the beginning of the next contraction, and each contraction lasts (remains hard) for at least 45 seconds, and this all continues for a full hour, you should call your doctor and be checked. If you are more than 4cm, you will be admitted to the hospital. Good luck.