At what degree of dilation is a mother ready to push?

• A. 7 cm
• B. 8 cm
• C. 10 cm
• D. 5 cm

Answer: (C)

A mother is typically ready to push when she has reached full cervical dilation, which is 10 centimeters. At this stage, the baby's head is usually positioned at a low station within the birth canal, allowing for effective pushing efforts during the second stage of labor. Achieving full dilation is essential because it indicates that the cervix has opened sufficiently to allow the infant to pass through the birth canal without obstruction.

While other choices indicate significant stages of dilation, they are not adequate for pushing. For instance, 7 cm and 8 cm dilation are part of the process leading up to full dilation but are not sufficient for effective pushing. Similarly, 5 cm dilation represents the earlier phase of labor, where the mother is not yet close to the pushing stage. Therefore, the correct answer reflects the necessary cervical status for the mother to engage in the pushing process safely and effectively.