Wash your hands thoroughly
Trim and clean your nails
Get into 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
Gently insert one or two clean fingers into the vagina
Feel for the cervix, which is the firm, round opening at the top of the vagina
Note how open the cervix feels and compare it over time
Stop if you feel pain, bleeding, or strong discomfort
Do not check if your water has broken, if you have bleeding, or if your healthcare provider advised against it
Ask a healthcare professional to check dilation if you are unsure