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Incompetent Cervix & Cerclage Overview
Cervical cerclage refers to a variety of procedures that use sutures or synthetic tape to reinforce the cervix during pregnancy in women with a history of a short cervix. The cervix is the lower part of the uterus that opens to the vagina.
Cervical cerclage can be done through the vagina (transvaginal cervical cerclage) or, less commonly, through the abdomen (transabdominal cervical cerclage).
Why it’s done:
Before pregnancy, the cervix is closed, long and firm. During pregnancy, the cervix gradually softens, decreases in length (effaces) and opens (dilates) in preparation for birth. If you have an incompetent or short cervix, however, your cervix might begin to open too soon. As a result, you could experience pregnancy loss or give birth prematurely.
Your health care provider might recommend cervical cerclage during pregnancy to prevent premature birth if you have:
- A history of second trimester pregnancy loss related to painless cervical dilation in the absence of labor or placental abruption (history-indicated cervical cerclage)
- Prior cerclage due to painless cervical dilation in the second trimester
- Painless cervical dilation diagnosed during the second trimester
- A short cervical length (less than 25 millimeters) before 24 weeks of pregnancy, in a singleton pregnancy
Our Specialist:
Dr Orlando Cunningham
Gynaecology, ObstetricianWorking since 2010