Cervical cerclagea procedure that reinforces the cervixhelps prevent the cervix from opening too early in the pregnancy.
A stitch is placed around the cervix during the procedure to prevent it fromdilatingand shortening.
This procedure is also known as a cervical stitch.
Verywell / Jessica Olah
The cervix softens to help your body prepare to deliver your baby.
It is usually diagnosed in the second trimester of pregnancy.
This condition affects up to 1% of pregnant people.
Typically, the procedure is completed before 24 weeks.
When Is a Cervical Cerclage Not Recommended?
A cervical cerclage isnt the best option for all women with a weakening cervix.
Risks include:
What to Expect
The cervical cerclage is considered an outpatient procedure.
Gradually, you’re free to increase your activity again following your healthcare providers recommendation.
An abdominal cerclage may also be placed prior to pregnancy for women with certain risk factors.
A cerclage procedure is done under general or regional anesthesia to control pain.
Your practitioner will place a stitch around the cervix to keep it closed and supported.
Some pregnant women experience cramping and light bleeding for a few days after the procedure.
If you have any questions about symptoms after the procedure, contact your healthcare provider.
Cerclage Removal
The cerclage removal occurs between 36 and 38 weeks of pregnancy.
If you plan to deliver by a cesarean section, the cerclage removal may wait until then.
The procedure to remove the cerclage is straightforward and often completed in your healthcare provider’s office.
In some cases, the removal is done in the hospital.
If you had a transabdominal cerclage placed, you will likely have a cesarean section to deliver your baby.
The incision for the cesarean will be right above the incision for the cerclage.
Your healthcare provider will help you figure out if a cerclage procedure is right for you.
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Transvaginal cervical cerclage: evidence for perioperative management strategies.American Journal of Obstetrics and Gynecology.
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