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When a woman's cervix thins during labour it is referred to as effacing. When her cervix is opening it is called dilating. These cervical changes can be measured by the caregiver doing an internal vaginal examination with their gloved fingers during labour, often referred to as a VE or vaginal examination, or perhaps an 'internal'. During labour vaginal examinations are usually carried out after a contraction finishes and when the woman says she is ready.

An internal examination procedure involves the caregiver putting on a sterile glove and often using an antiseptic cream called Hibitane, applied to the first and second fingertips. If the woman is allergic to Hibitane, then normal lubricating jelly can be used. Their 2 fingers are then gently inserted into the woman's vagina, so the caregiver can examine her cervix.

The woman's cervix is checked for the following: