22/04/2026
INCOMPETENT CERVIX TREATMENT (What Is Cervical Cerclage?
Cervical Cerclage in Pregnancy
🔴A cervical cerclage, also known as a cervical stitch, is a surgical procedure where a strong stitch is placed around the cervix to prevent it from opening too early during pregnancy.
🔴This is often done when the cervix is weak or shortening before the baby is ready to be born.
When Is It Recommended?
Doctors may suggest this procedure if:
🥚You’ve had previous miscarriages in the second trimester
🥚The cervix is found to be shortening early in pregnancy through ultrasound
🥚There’s a history of premature birth due to cervical insufficiency
🥚You’re carrying multiples, and cervical length is a concern
Types of Cervical Cerclage
There are three main types of cervical cerclage, chosen based on medical history and the stage of pregnancy.
1. Transva**nal Cerclage
Most common type
Placed through the va**na
Usually done between 12 and 14 weeks
Removed around 36–37 weeks or during labour
2. Transabdominal Cerclage
Less common, done when va**nal cerclage is not possible
Requires abdominal surgery
May stay in place for future pregnancies
Typically done before conception or early in pregnancy.
3. Emergency or Rescue Cerclage
Performed later in pregnancy if cervix is already dilated
Considered a last resort when labour hasn’t started
Higher risk of complications
How the Procedure Is Done
Cervical cerclage is typically done as a day procedure and involves the following steps:
A spinal or general anaesthetic is used
The cervix is stitched closed using strong medical thread
The process takes about 30–60 minutes
Most women return home the same day.
You’ll be advised to rest for a day or two and may need regular follow-up scans to monitor the cervix.
THINGS NOT TO DO AFTER CERVICAL CERCLAGE
Recovery is usually smooth, but certain actions can cause stress on the cervix and should be avoided.
Activities to Avoid:
🔴Heavy lifting or physical exertion
Sexual activity (for at least 1–2 weeks or as advised)
🔴Travelling long distances, especially on bumpy roads
🔴Standing or walking for extended periods
🔴Inserting anything va**nally (including tampons)
🔴Always follow your doctor’s advice based on your specific condition.
Common Symptoms After Cerclage
After the procedure, some discomfort is normal. However, you should be aware of what is usual and what requires medical attention.
Normal symptoms:
🥚Mild cramps
🥚Light bl@ or spotting
🥚Mild back pain
Contact your doctor if you notice:
🥚Severe cramping
🥚Heavy bl@
🥚Leaking fluid from the va**na
🥚Fever or chills
🥚Strong pelvic pressure
BENEFITS OF CERVICAL CERCLAGE
Cervical cerclage can be life-saving for the baby in many cases. It helps keep the cervix closed until the baby is more developed.
Advantages include:
🛑Reduced risk of miscarriage
🛑Lower chance of premature birth
🛑Greater peace of mind during pregnancy
While not guaranteed to prevent early birth in all cases, it has shown strong results for women with a history of cervical insufficiency.
RISKS AND COMPLICATIONS
Every medical procedure has some risks, and cervical cerclage is no exception.
Possible Risks:
🥚Infection of the cervix or uterus
🥚Premature rupture of membranes
🥚Bleeding
🥚Stitch failure
🥚Irritation of the cervix
In rare cases, early removal of the stitch may be needed. However, most women have positive outcomes with proper monitoring.
