Cervical Incompetence - Incompetent Cervix

What are the treatments for the condition?

A cervical cerclage can be used during future pregnancies to prevent miscarriage in a woman with an incompetent cervix. A cerclage is a stitch inserted around the cervix to prevent it from opening too early. The procedure is usually done 14 to 16 weeks into the pregnancy. The woman may be put on bed rest for a short period of time. The cerclage can be removed at the time of delivery, or it can be left in place if a cesarean section is done.

What are the side effects of the treatments?

Side effects of the surgical procedure to do the cerclage include bleeding, infection, and allergic reaction to anesthesia. Here is a list of the most common possible side effects of a cerclage:

What happens after treatment for the condition?

After a cerclage, the woman is kept on bed rest for 24 hours. She will be monitored for any uterine contractions, or labor. She will be advised to get plenty of rest each day and to decrease her physical activity for the remainder of her pregnancy. Vaginal intercourse should be avoided until after delivery. The stitch is most often removed just before the baby is due.

How is the condition monitored?

The woman will need to be followed closely throughout her pregnancy to check on the condition of the cervix. Prenatal visits will be more frequent than usual. The woman should tell her healthcare provider right away if she has any contractions or leaking of fluid from the vagina. Any other new or worsening symptoms should also be reported to the healthcare provider.