Cervix is still closed | Exercises for the cervix during pregnancy

Cervix is still closed

During pregnancy, the cervix is tightly closed to protect the unborn child from germs before they enter. Only around the 39th week of pregnancy does the cervix become soft and short in order to prepare for the forthcoming birth. Therefore, the condition of the cervix is a good starting point for the midwife or gynecologist to check which stage of birth the woman is in.

In some cases, the cervix does not open despite the onset of labor. For example, if the baby does not exert enough pressure on the cervix – in this case doctors refer to it as a weakness in labor. A drip can help to strengthen the contractions.

In most cases, however, it is sufficient for the midwife to stimulate the cervix. To do this, the midwife inserts a finger into the vagina and moves the finger back and forth along the cervix. The friction causes the baby’s membranes to separate from the cervix and the hormone prostaglandin is released. The hormone ensures that the contractions begin more strongly and that the birth takes place within the next 48 hours in most cases.

Alternative treatment measures

As an alternative to the described treatment measures, acupuncture can have a positive effect on the cervix. Studies show that pregnant women who received acupuncture applications during pregnancy had a softer cervix. In addition, the opening phase of the cervix could be shortened by an average of 2 hours. Homeopathic remedies, such as Pulsatilla pratensis (cow clamp), can be taken as a supplement to preparation for childbirth. It helps to relax the cervix and make it soft.

Summary

The cervix plays a decisive role in the birth: on the one hand, it ensures protection against rising germs, on the other hand, it regulates the time of birth. If the cervix is weak, strict bed rest or surgical intervention is required to avoid a miscarriage or premature birth. Otherwise, the cervix can be exercised during pregnancy by means of oral exercises and pelvic floor training. After pregnancy, pelvic floor exercises help to reduce the size of the cervix.