What is a cervical cerclage?
A cervical cerclage is a procedure to place a special stitch in your cervix (neck of your womb) to help keep it closed during your pregnancy (see figure 1).
If you are aware that you have a cervical weakness, a cervical cerclage can usually be performed from 14 weeks of your pregnancy.
When you become pregnant, your cervix should close tightly and block off your uterus (womb) with a plug of mucus. As your baby grows, the pressure on your cervix increases. If you have a weak cervix, your cervix may open without any pain and cause your membranes to bulge out and rupture (your waters breaking). A weak cervix may cause you to have a late miscarriage (when your pregnancy ends after 12 weeks and before 24 weeks).
What are the benefits of a cervical cerclage?
Placing a special stitch in your cervix should help to prevent you from losing your baby because of a weak cervix.
Are there any alternatives to a cervical cerclage?
The only alternative is to spend most of the time resting. Do not do strenuous exercise.
What does the procedure involve?
The procedure is usually performed under a spinal anaesthetic. A cervical cerglage usually takes 20 to 30 minutes.
Your legs will be put in ‘stirrups’. Your obstetrician will use antiseptic to clean your vagina. They will place instruments in your vagina and use them to place a stitch, using a thick synthetic tape, into and around your cervix.
What complications can happen?
- Discomfort or mild cramping
- Vaginal spotting or bleeding
- Infection
- Premature rupture of your membranes
- Premature labour
- Miscarriage
- Damaged cervix
How soon will I recover?
You should be able to go home the next day.
It is normal to have a small amount of bleeding for a few days.
You should be able to return to normal activities, including having sex, after 7 to 10 days. Do not do strenuous exercise.
If you get any pain, bleeding, contractions or think you may be going into labour, let your doctor know straightaway.
Your obstetrician will remove the stitch at about 36 weeks, usually in the delivery suite.
Acknowledgements
Author: Mr Andrew Woods MBBS MRCOG FRANZCOG
Illustrations: Hannah Ravenscroft RM
Content Partner
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EIDO Healthcare Ltd
Last updated:
June 2015
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