The importance of a bishop score

A bishop score  is used to rate the readiness of the cervix for labor. With this scoring system, a number ranging from 0 to 13 is given to rate the condition of the cervix. A score less than 6 means that your cervix is not ready for labor. A score of 8 or more indicates that the cervix is ripe and ready for labor .

Your health care provider will have to know your bishop score because it helps to tell if the body is ready to go into  labor or not. Using a gloved finger, your midwife will assess the condition  and position of the cervix and work out where your baby is  in relation to certain points on your cervix. A bishop score is based on the following :

• how dilated  the cervix is
• how short the cervix is
• how far in your pelvis your baby’s head or bottom is
• the consistency of your cervix, whether it is firm or soft ( the softer the better)
• the position of the cervix that is whether its  pointing backwards or  forward. ( pointing forward is better)

If you have a low bishop score , you have the option of not trying any type  of induction.  You can wait to see if labor will start naturally or opt for a cesarean section. Your health care provider will discuss this with you and decide what is best for both you and your baby.

 
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