Dilation?

Okay so in the UK, we arent checked for dilation and I see a lot of you (not in UK) already know how much you are dilated etc. So my question is - is there any indication of if you have dilated any? Did you feel different from when you werent dilated to when you were? Basically any clear signs of dilation because i feel like i may be some but wouldnt know as midwives here dont like to check due to risk of infection etc