Is it necessary to have my cervix checked?

Question

Last week I was checked at 36 weeks, I was 2 cm dilated and 50% effaced. Afterwards I had pretty bad cramps and spotting. As far as I can determine, getting checked only asses the progress of the uterus and doesn't really determine when you'll go in to labor, right? Is it really necessary, how useful is the information? I'll get checked when I go into labor? 
I want to decline getting checked again if it's not benefiting me.

Answer

They don't even do checks in the UK, not until you're in full labour, so I don't think it's particularly important.

Answer

My doctor NEVER checked me and I'm 39 weeks. I'm going in the morning for my first check ever before my induction tomorrow evening 😊 the only purpose it serves is if you're being induced, it will tell the doctor how to go about an induction-using a cervix ripening agent or pitocin. Otherwise, it's just don't for your information. You can be dilated to 3 cm for days or even weeks before labor begins on its own. There's no point in checking the cervix unless you're experiencing issues or being induced.

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My midwife won't check until 40 weeks. You can def decline!!!

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You can def decline! You're getting so close! I can't wait to hear about your little boy! 💙

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Not necessary at all. I actually was given the option to get checked at my 36 week appointment and I asked the doctor is there was really any benefits to it and she said no it's just most people are curious. I declined simply because I have Important things going on this weekend that I can't miss and I was afraid it would kick start labor a little sooner or at least make me bleed some or have cramps which I really didn't want over the weekend. Also checking that early too doesn't really tell you much because some people go weeks being 2 cm dilated. Once you are in labor and go to the hospital they will check you then as they need to know if it's real or false labor and determine if you're far enough along to even keep there.

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Had mine checked for the first time today at 36+2 and I'm closed. Now I feel kinda sore and uncomfortable down there with constant discharge. I think I will skip out on all cervical checks until I go into labor.

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My doctor doesn't do them because it doesn't tell you anything about when you'll go into labor. Say no if you don't want it.

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It's really not necessary. My dr checked me today and I'm 39 weeks, that's the earliest he'll check. I still haven't dilated any though. I think checking anytime before is pointless.

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It is not necessary. I've decline every time so far. My doctor may want to do it in a week or two when I'm 39 or 40 weeks, but if nothing is happening I don't see a need.