Cervical Cerclage to Prevent Preterm Delivery

Reference Cervical cerclage Opens New Window is the placement of stitches in the Reference cervix Opens New Window to hold it closed. In select cases, this procedure is used to keep a weak cervix (Reference incompetent cervix Opens New Window) from opening early. When a cervix opens early, it may cause Reference preterm labor Opens New Window and delivery. If you have an incompetent cervix, your doctor may recommend cervical cerclage.

Cervical cerclage involves stitching shut the cervix, which is the outlet of the uterus. Cerclage can be done preventively at 12 to 14 weeks before the cervix thins out, or as an emergency measure after the cervix has thinned. It is rarely used after 24 weeks.

Cerclage is performed using either Reference general anesthesia or regional anesthesia Opens New Window (such as spinal injection). Usually cerclage is done through the vagina. A speculum, an instrument with paddles shaped like spoons, is inserted into the pregnant woman's vagina to spread the vaginal walls apart for the surgery. The surgery can be done in different ways:

• Stitches can be placed around the outside of the cervix.
• A special tape can be tied around the cervix and stitched in place.
• A small incision can be made in the cervix. A special tape is then tied through the cervix to close it.

If an incompetent cervix is diagnosed later in pregnancy, the woman's Reference amniotic sac Opens New Window may begin to protrude through her cervix. This may be treated by inserting a thin tube (catheter) through the cervix, then inflating a bulb at the end of the catheter. Another technique involves filling the bladder with liquid using a catheter inserted through the Reference urethra Opens New Window. The full bladder helps to push the amniotic sac back up into the pelvis, and the cervix can then be stitched shut.

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This information does not replace the advice of a doctor. Healthwise, Incorporated disclaims any warranty or liability for your use of this information. Your use of this information means that you agree to the Reference Terms of Use. Reference How this information was developed to help you make better health decisions.