Every mom has her own unique birth experience—the highs, the lows, and everything in between. While the more painful memories may begin to fade, for those who have had vaginal deliveries, this next image will certainly evoke those raw feelings.
Recently, social media user Emma Collins shared a now-famous photo of a wooden dilation chart, originally posted by SCV Birth Center, depicting the cervical dilation process in centimeters. Her caption read, “This is why we deserve all the things,” and honestly, who can disagree? No one, that’s who. slowly unclenches
The SCV Birth Center’s original post humorously stated, “Well—that’s what 10 centimeters looks like. Just perfect for that little head.” Unless, of course, your child arrived with a head the size of a watermelon, in which case it quickly transforms into, “I’ll take fourth-degree tear for 500, Alex.” After 15 years and two C-sections (because, let’s be real), I’m still nursing that grudge.
The SCV Birth Center, the only nationally accredited CABC birth center in the Santa Clarita Valley, Antelope, and San Fernando Valley, uses this chart as an educational tool to demonstrate what women’s bodies endure during labor. It certainly leaves little room for misunderstanding other than, “Wait, what?!”
This center offers personalized maternity and well-woman care, including options for natural childbirth, home births, and water births to women in the area. If you’re interested in having your own dilation board like the one featured, you can find it at Fromjennifer on Etsy.
Although I might not want one hanging on my wall as a constant reminder, it does provide a clear, to-scale representation of the incredible capabilities of a woman’s body during childbirth. We’ve always known we were strong, but this chart drives the point home in a way that’s hard to ignore.
Understanding the changes your body will undergo during labor and delivery is crucial. While we’ve all flipped through “What to Expect” guides detailing the importance of having a birth plan and packing for the hospital, witnessing the physical process is a different experience altogether.
To achieve a vaginal delivery, the cervix must be fully effaced and dilated to ten centimeters, and the time it takes to reach that point can vary widely. If you’ve been induced or have had previous births, you may progress through dilation more quickly. For some, this journey can stretch into hours or even days.
At the end of the day, our children are worth every ounce of effort our bodies put forth during labor. Dilation is just one of the many incredible transformations that enable us to bring new life into the world. The bottom line? Women’s bodies are remarkable, and we absolutely deserve all the things.
For those interested in further information regarding pregnancy and home insemination, this excellent resource on female infertility can provide additional insights. Also, if you’re exploring ways to boost your fertility, you might want to check out these supplements.
In summary, the dilation chart serves as a powerful reminder of the strength and resilience of mothers everywhere, perfectly encapsulating why they deserve all the recognition and support.
Leave a Reply