what does effaced mean in labor

Effacement in labor refers to the thinning and shortening of the cervix as the body prepares for childbirth. It is a natural process that occurs towards the end of pregnancy, allowing the baby to move into the birth canal. Effacement is measured in percentages, with 0% effacement indicating that the cervix is still long and firm, and 100% effacement indicating that the cervix has completely thinned and shortened. This process is essential for a vaginal delivery, as the cervix must be 100% effaced for the baby to pass through the birth canal.