how soon could labor start

My daughter is 38 weeks pregnant.At her exam today she was 3 cm dialated & 90% effaced.The doctor said she could feel the baby's head.How soon could labor start?

[JoyRenee]

Labor could start in 3 hours or 3 weeks. Women can stay dilated for many days and weeks, even months. She'll be considered in active labor when she reaches 4-5cm dilated.

[Shannon125]

I'm with Joy on this one. I was 3 cm and 90% effaced having mild contractions for 2.5 weeks and finally ended up having to be induced on my due date. Everyone is different. The baby will come when ready. Congrats to you and your daughter.

[chantal21]

I agree with these ladies. I was 37w 5d  and was already 4 cm  and just about 100% effaced for 2 days and then gave birth at 38 weeks. My one midwife was 4cm dilated for an entire month before she gave birth. Everyone is different. Tell her to walk, walk, walk!! That's what I did and I think it really helped! =) She is almost there!

[leighanne143]

i agree with Joy.  my friend was the same as your daughter and was stalled for 2 weeks at 3cm. but then again she could go tonight.  just make sure the hospital bag is packed and ready.

i never even dialted at all.  i just had a baby 4 weeks ago. I stupdily did not have my bag ready and had to have an emer c-section and had to just through stuff together.

[momto558]

Thanks everyone.I had five and was never that far before I actually went into labor.I had all mine within 6 hrs and I'm thinking she will go fast once she starts.She is a hairstylist and on her feet all day so I'm wondering if that has something to do with it.The bags are all packed and we are all ready to meet Gianna:)