What’s the Next Stage After Cervix Shortens??

Ni

Does a cervix have to soften first for it to shorten?? How does this all work. Doctors don’t really tell me nothing. And this is my second pregnancy. I am 34 weeks pregnant with a boy. Last week I wasn’t dilated. But from ultrasounds my cervix has been shortening...so what’s next after it shortens?? Dilation?? Someone help me please if you know.