Cervical cerclage how is it performed

After having a transvaginal cervical cerclage removed, you'll typically be able to resume your usual activities as you wait for labor to begin naturally.

If you expect to have a C-section and plan to have children in the future, you might choose to leave a Shirodkar cerclage in place throughout your pregnancy and after the baby is born. However, it's possible that the cerclage could affect your future fertility.

Consult your health care provider about your options. If you had a transabdominal cervical cerclage, you'll need to have another abdominal incision to remove the cerclage. As a result, a C-section is typically recommended. Your baby will be delivered through an incision made above the cerclage. During the C-section, you can choose to have the cerclage removed or leave it in place for future pregnancies.

Research suggests that cervical cerclage reduces the risk of premature birth in women with proven cervical insufficiency. However, the timing of cervical cerclage can also affect the outcome.

Emergency cervical cerclage done in the presence of advanced cervical change and prolapsed membranes has a poorer outcome. Mayo Clinic does not endorse companies or products.

Advertising revenue supports our not-for-profit mission. This content does not have an English version. This content does not have an Arabic version. Overview Cervical cerclage Open pop-up dialog box Close. Cervical cerclage In a cervical cerclage, strong stiches sutures are used to close the cervix during pregnancy to help prevent premature birth.

Request an Appointment at Mayo Clinic. Share on: Facebook Twitter. Show references Berhella V. Cervical insufficiency. Accessed Feb. Norwitz ER, et al. Transabdominal and laparoscopic cervicoisthmic cerclage. Norwitz ER. Transvaginal cervical cerclage.

Accessed March 12, American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists. Obstetrics and Gynecology. Gabbe SG, et al. In: Obstetrics: Normal and Problem Pregnancies. A damaged cervix may not remain closed during pregnancy. Had a previous second-trimester pregnancy loss or a delivery that occurred with few or no contractions.

This suggests that her cervix may not remain closed during pregnancy. How Well It Works Success of the cervical cerclage procedure is defined as a pregnancy that lasts until term or close to term. Risks The risks of cervical cerclage are rare but can include: Infection. Damage to the cervix during surgery.

Excessive blood loss. Preterm prelabor rupture of membranes pPROM. This means your water breaks long before it should. Preterm labor. Permanent narrowing or closure of the cervix cervical stenosis. Tearing of the cervix or uterus if labor progresses with the stitches still in place. What To Think About Surgical cerclage: Is not used when a pregnant woman has vaginal bleeding or uterine contractions or if her membranes have ruptured early. Requires that stitches be taken out of the cervix before labor begins.

Sometimes this is necessary on an emergency basis when labor starts suddenly. May require a cesarean section for delivery of the baby. References Citations Haas DM Preterm birth, search date June BMJ Clinical Evidence. Credits Current as of: October 8, Current as of: October 8, Cervical cerclage helps prevent miscarriage or premature labor caused by cervical incompetence.

Cervical cerclage appears to be effective when true cervical incompetence exists, but unfortunately, the diagnosis of cervical incompetence is very difficult and can be inaccurate. However, even with the help of a cerclage, other problems can cause labor to begin too early. Women who have a cerclage placed will need to be checked routinely for other complications such as infection and preterm labor.

Most women have general, spinal, or epidural anesthesia for pain control during the procedure. A doctor will stitch a band of strong thread around the cervix, and the thread will be tightened to hold the cervix firmly closed. The procedure is similar to having a pap smear and may cause some light bleeding. The likelihood of risks occurring is very minimal, and most health professionals feel a cerclage is a life-saving procedure that outweighs the possible risks involved.

Possible risks could include:. It is important to contact your doctor if you experience any of the following symptoms after your cerclage is placed:. Most women who need a cerclage in one pregnancy will need to have a cerclage placed in future pregnancies.

Cunningham, F. Gary, et al, Ch. Scott, James R. Cervical Cerclage. What is a cervical cerclage? Why is cervical cerclage used? What are alternatives to the cervical cerclage procedure? What are the benefits of a cerclage? What should I expect before my cervical cerclage is placed?