Can you dilate without contractions?

Madi • 💙 Sep.05.2020 🌈 - 🕊️ Nov.27.2022 👼 - 💙 Oct.2.2024 🌈

Does dilation require contractions? Do contractions cause dilation or the other way around? I’m just curious because I’m 2cm dilated and 50% effaced but I’ve not had any painful contractions. I have had Braxton Hicks contractions but nothing painful.