Cervical cerclage is a surgical procedure to close the cervical os, generally classified as a minor to moderate surgery requiring local anesthesia, with an approximate duration of half an hour. Cervical cerclage should be performed at a Level II or higher hospital. It is advisable to seek an experienced, senior physician familiar with this procedure.
Cervical cerclage is only indicated for pregnant women with cervical insufficiency, who typically have a history of multiple mid-to-late term miscarriages or preterm births.The vast majority of women with cervical incompetence have congenital causes, though some develop cervical dysfunction due to acquired factors like a history of difficult labor. If you are not yet pregnant and your doctor confirms cervical incompetence (usually diagnosed during a non-pregnant period via cervical dilation with a speculum), cervical cerclage can be performed before conception.If you are already pregnant, the procedure is typically performed around 14 to 16 weeks gestation. Advances in cervical cerclage techniques, suture materials, and pre- and post-operative care now allow for surgery even after the optimal window has passed. A second cerclage may also be performed based on the condition of the sutures after the initial procedure.
Cervical cerclage is only indicated for women experiencing recurrent miscarriages or preterm labor due to cervical incompetence. However, since multiple factors can trigger preterm labor, this procedure cannot prevent all causes. Therefore, even after undergoing cervical cerclage, you must continue diligent prenatal care and remain vigilant for any signs of preterm labor.