Cerclage 

What is cervical cerclage? 

Cervical cerclage is a procedure that helps prevent preterm labor or second-trimester miscarriages. These complications may occur if your cervix opens too early in pregnancy, a condition called cervical incompetence. 

Also called a cervical stitch, cerclage involves placing a single stitch or synthetic tape around your cervix. This strengthens the cervix, reducing the risk of preterm delivery or miscarriage. 

Why would I need cervical cerclage? 

When you are pregnant, your cervix naturally changes to prepare for childbirth. If you have a weak or short cervix, it may begin to open (dilate) too soon. When this happens, you can lose the pregnancy or deliver your baby too early. 

Your obstetrician may refer you to Dr. Davidson for cervical cerclage if you have one or more of the following risk factors during pregnancy: 

• History of second-trimester miscarriage 

• Previous cervical cerclage 

• Previous cone biopsy of the cervix 

• History of preterm delivery 

You may also be a suitable candidate for cerclage if your cervix shortens to less than 25 mm before you are 24 weeks (about 5 and a half months) pregnant. 

What should I expect from a cervical cerclage procedure? 

First, Dr. Davidson performs a thorough physical and pelvic exam and reviews your medical history to make sure you are a suitable candidate for cervical cerclage. 

Dr. Davidson performs the cerclage procedure in a hospital operating room, but most women go home the same day. To prevent discomfort, she may offer a local or regional anesthetic. 

During the procedure, she inserts a speculum into your vagina to clearly access your cervix. Then, she places a stitch around the outside of your cervix and tightens it to close your cervix. 

After the procedure, she performs an ultrasound to check on your developing baby and continues to closely monitor you over the following weeks for signs of preterm labor. Typically, Dr. Davidson removes cervical cerclage around week 37 of your pregnancy. 

Common side effects of cervical cerclage placement include cramping, spotting, and painful urination. These side effects typically resolve within a few days.