By admin Media Health Group aims to give the best and accurate information that can aid in empowering people in the health sector. Our goal is to simplify the most complicated medical issues like cervical cerclage in order for people and their families to make the best decisions surrounding pregnancy and reproductive health.
As we all know, pregnancy is a journey that one shouldn’t take lightly. In most cases, some complexities like insufficiency of the cervix can bring about the risk of miscarriage or premature birth. So one of the most popular and successful procedures for this particular issue is called a cervical cerclage. This is a procedure that enhances a cervix that is weak with the proper stitches needed to help with the pregnancy.
So during this article, we will discover the meaning of a cerclage procedure, the reason for this procedure, the risks, what to expect with recovery, and lastly when it is necessary to talk with your OB-GYN. Even if you are pregnant or you’re planning to be pregnant, it is important to understand this procedure and how beneficial it might be to you along the way.
In simple words, cervical cerclage can be known as a surgical method that is used to aid with cervical insufficiency, which is also known as an incompetent cervix. In order to explain cervical insufficiency better, it is important to know that this condition happens when the cervix gets shorter and opens too early during pregnancy, which can then lead to premature labor or second trimester loss.
When doing a cerclage procedure, the doctor in charge puts a stitch around the cervix in order to tighten it and keep it very closed until the pregnancy is in a safer period which is normally around 36 to 37 weeks and that is when the stitches has been removed.
A cerclage procedure is primarily of three types and they are:
This is the most popular type of cerclage procedure and it is normally put through the vagina during 12 to 14 weeks of pregnancy. It is also normally done when the patient is put under local or general anesthesia.
This procedure is normally done when cervical dilation is happening, but membranes are still in place. It is highly considered a big risk and may not have the outcome that you are expecting.
This procedure is only used when transvaginal cerclage didn’t pull through or is not an option. It involves making an incision on the small abdomen and usually needs a C-section delivery.
You might get recommended for a cerclage if you have the following:
- Frequent losses of second trimester pregnancies
- A cervix that is very short usually less than 25mm before 24 weeks which is seen through an ultrasound
- Premature birth in past which was caused by cervical insufficiency
- A funnelling in your cervix indicating an open cervix during your second trimester all without contractions
You might need a cerclage if you have the following:
- More than one late miscarriages that is without cause.
- A former cerclage with a failed result
- Cervical insufficiency that had been diagnosed
- Having a short cervix during a single pregnancy usually before 24 weeks
N/B: It is important to note that you don’t need a cerclage if you’re having twins or multiple pregnancies because of the increased numbers of complications.
You should know that your doctor will need transvaginal ultrasounds, bloodwork and probably cervical cultures in order to check for infections and lastly you would be warned to avoid having sex before and after the surgery.
It is important to know that the procedure would take about 30 to 60 minutes, it would be done under local, spinal or general anesthesia and you might need to stay in the hospital for a few hours or even overnight just to be monitored
You might experience mild cramping and possibly spotting that might happen for 1 to 2 days and please note that this is normal, your activities might also be limited to one week and you would have to undergo ultrasounds after to help note the length of your cervix. Lastly, your medical practitioner would take out the stitch around 36 to 37 weeks or if labor begins, it might be earlier than that.
Though this procedure is usually safe, it might still come with some risks and this might include:
- Infection like chorioamnionitis
- Breakage of water
- Laceration of the cervix might happen if the labor starts while the stitch is still there
- Bleeding
- Premature labor
N/B: Your OB-GYN should always check your risk profile before giving the thumbs up for this procedure.
Below are some tips for the recovery process of cerclage:
- It is required to rest for at least 24 to 48 hours
- You need to ask or check for any premature labour signs, especially if it is after 24 weeks
- You should avoid intercourse, lifting heavy items and standing for a long time for a week or even more
- It is important to go for all prenatal visits and ultrasounds that have been scheduled
- You should tell your doctor about any signs of infection like smelly discharge, fever or serious cramping
Mostly, the stitch from the cerclage is taken out around 36 to 37 weeks, except if your labor starts early. The process of removal is very fast and normally doesn’t require going under anesthesia.
It is important to know that if you go into labor with the stitch still there, it might be a medical emergency. That is why it is advisable to monitor your third trimester.
Not really. Since the procedure is done under anesthesia, you are not going to feel any pain. But however, you might cramp or have a little discomfort after the procedure.
It is all dependent on you. While some people go back to work after a week, others might be told to stay on partial or full bed rest. Your doctor is meant to let you know what to do depending on the nature of your pregnancy and how demanding your job is.
There is no medical procedure that is completely effective, however sometimes for the right people this procedure can help to reduce the issue of premature birth.
Yes, a lot of people can deliver through their vagina after having a transvaginal cerclage. If you underwent a transabdominal cerclage, you might end up needing a C-section.
Yes, but your next pregnancy might also need cerclage, all this is dependent on your condition. It is recommended to take counseling before conception.
A cervical cerclage is normally considered a very important and most times invigorating choice for people that often have premature labour because of cervical insufficiency. Despite surgery that happens during pregnancy sounding like an alarming topic, cerclage has had a record of enhancing results for both mother and child, especially when done properly.
With the proper prenatal care, support after the procedure and monitoring, most patients can actually have healthy deliveries. If you’re suspecting that you might encounter risk, please talk to your doctor about this procedure and find out if it is the right decision for you.