cervical ripening
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cervical ripening
The stromal response of the cervix in phase 1 of parturition, which precedes the onset of labour, in which the cervix becomes softer and more dilatable.Segen's Medical Dictionary. © 2012 Farlex, Inc. All rights reserved.
cervical ripening
Obstetrics The stromal response of the cervix in phase 1 of parturition, which precedes the onset of labor, in which the cervix becomes softer and more dilatable. See Cervical effacement.McGraw-Hill Concise Dictionary of Modern Medicine. © 2002 by The McGraw-Hill Companies, Inc.
cervical ripening
The biochemical changes in the cervix that take place gradually over the last few weeks of gestation in preparation for childbirth. The cervix softens, and its potential for stretching increases. Normally this occurs naturally, but in postterm pregnancies it may be necessary to use mechanical dilators or drugs. Placement of Laminaria digitata or prostaglandin E analogs (e.g., misoprostol) in the vagina or cervical canal promotes cervical ripening and onset of labor but does not reduce the rate of cesarean deliveries.
Patient care
Fetal status is assessed by monitoring the heart rate for 30 min before gel insertion and for approx. 1 hr after the procedure. The woman is assessed for uterine contractions and signs of hyperstimulation, nausea, or vomiting. If hyperstimulation occurs, the gel is removed, and the primary health care provider is notified.
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