What does it mean if you're 80% effaced?

Answer by  KT5790 (22)

Effaced simply means the thinning of the cervix during pregnancy. For example, at the time of birth women are 10 cm dilated and 100% effaced.

Answer by  nfr (115)

The word "effacement" refers to the thinning of the cervix, you are 100% effaced when you are ready to have a baby.

Answer by  technogeek (6640)

80% effacement means that the cervix is 80% softened and prepared for labor. When the cervix reaches 100%, then you are in labor.

Answer by  amswplusone (652)

When you're getting closer to delivery, your cervix dialates (opens up more) and thins to make way for the baby that's about to come through. When it's time for delivery you're usually dialated 10 centimeters and your cerivx is very thin. Being 80% effaced means your cervix has reduced it's thickness by 80% of the change you'd expect for delivery.