With DD I had two IE's. One when I got to hospital after abour 4 hours of labour and was told about 4cm. Second one was 6 hours later and only 5cm. So I was completely disheartened and just wanted to give up. Luckily DH managed to calm me down, I refused any further examinations and she was born another 10hours later.

With DS, walked straight into labour suite telling midwife absolutely no IE's and I coped much better.

I don't think its helpful and I think you know when your near the end (well I did anyway!). Honestly I think its better to not think about how dilated you may be and just go with the flow (removing all clocks helps too lol!)