Cervical incompetence
On this page, you will find everything you are looking for regarding cervical insufficiency.
What Is Cervical Insufficiency?
Before pregnancy, the cervix, which is located at the lower endof the uterus toward the vagina, is closed and firm. However,as the due date approaches, the cervix softens, shortens, and opens(dilates) to allow the baby to be born through the vagina.
In the case of cervical insufficiency, the cervix may soften, dilate, or shorten before the fetus reaches the appropriate age for birth, putting the fetus at risk of being born very prematurely or even causing a miscarriage.
What Are the Symptoms of Cervical Insufficiency?
- Unlike other signs of premature labor, such as contractions or water breaking, cervical insufficiency may not cause noticeable symptoms. However, there may be some warning symptoms in certain women, including:
- Pressure in the pelvis or abdominal pain.
Spotting or changes in vaginal discharge.
If there are no symptoms, the doctor relies on understanding your medical history to determine if you are at risk for cervical insufficiency.
What Are the Causes of Cervical Insufficiency?
- There is no specific cause for cervical insufficiency, but there are factors that may put you at risk, including:
- An abnormallyshapedcervixoruterus.
- Previous premature birth or miscarriage in the second trimester (from the third to the end of the sixth month).
- Cervical or uterine injury during a previous pregnancy or delivery.
- Undergoing cervical surgery.
A genetic disorder, such as Ehlers-Danlos syndrome, which may cause a weakened cervix and could lead to cervical insufficiency.
What Are the Diagnostic Methods?
- The doctor will take a medical history and conduct a clinical examination, and may request additional procedures as necessary, such as:
- Ensuring that the patient has not undergone an abortion or cervical surgery.
- Apelvicexamination.
Transvaginal ultrasound, especially if exposed to risk factors, to measure cervical length.
- What Are the Treatment:Methods for Cervical Insufficiency?
- Treatment involves several procedures, or as needed, which may include:
- Cervical cerclage (stitching), where the cervix is sewn.
Progesterone supplements, which are taken orally.
Increased weekly ultrasound monitoring to monitor cervical length, and resorting to cervical stitching if it dilates.
What Are the Preventive Methods for Cervical Insufficiency?
- If you are at risk for cervical insufficiency or show signs of cervical opening very early, your doctor may recommend preventive treatment to avoid pregnancy complications.
- Cervical insufficiency cannot be prevented, but simple steps can be taken to promote a healthy pregnancy. These steps include:
- Attending all prenatal appointments.
- Following a healthy and balanced diet .
- Gaining a healthy amount of weight during pregnancy.
- Avoiding substances such as alcohol and drugs.
Taking prenatal vitamins.
Asking the doctor before taking any supplements or medications.
What Are the Complications of Cervical Insufficiency?
- Cervical insufficiency can cause many complications, including miscarriage and premature birth.
- In rare cases, the treatment for cervical insufficiency (cerclage) may involve complications, including:
- Uterine rupture.
- Internal bleeding.
Cervical tearing or rupture.
Infection.
When Should You See a Doctor?
You should see a doctor throughout your pregnancy, and if any symptoms of cervical insufficiency appear, including bleeding or contractions, you should visit emergency obstetric care.
Frequently Asked Questions
