Wash your hands thoroughly
Use a clean, sterile glove if possible
Find a comfortable position, such as squatting, sitting on the toilet, or lying on your back with knees bent
Relax your pelvic muscles as much as possible
Insert one or two lubricated fingers gently into the vagina
Feel for the cervix, which is firm and round like the tip of a nose
Check how open the center of the cervix feels
Estimate dilation by comparing the opening to finger width or fingertip size
Stop if you feel pain, bleeding, or strong discomfort
Avoid checking if your water has broken, you have heavy bleeding, or you suspect infection
Contact a healthcare professional for an accurate assessment