Intermediate
Technical
IVT
cervical effacement
The thinning and shortening of the cervix during labor, measured as a percentage from 0% to 100%.
Full Definition
Cervical effacement refers to the progressive thinning and shortening of the cervix that occurs during late pregnancy and labor. The cervix changes from its normal thick, firm structure to a thin, soft tissue as it prepares for delivery. Effacement is measured as a percentage, with 0% indicating no change and 100% indicating complete thinning. This process typically occurs alongside cervical dilation and is a key indicator of labor progression.
Usage
Usage note: Always expressed as a percentage; often confused with dilation which measures opening width.
In Context
- "The patient's cervix showed 80% effacement with 4 cm dilation." — labor assessment notes
- "Complete effacement was achieved prior to full cervical dilation." — delivery report
Also known as
cervical thinning
Contrasted with
cervical thickening
Don't confuse with
cervical dilation