The present invention relates to a method and instrumentation for detecting the changes in cervical connective tissues associated with cervical dilation or effacement. This method uses an optical system to determine changes by laser or other light (12) induced native fluorescence spectroscopies (LIF) of cervix. The method is non-invasive and instant. It operates by shining excitation light (17) of a selected wavelength on cervical tissue and measuring fluorescent emissions. The measurement is completed in seconds. This method is an excellent fit with the clinical needs for determining the status of cervical dilation.