Incompetent Cervix

WHAT YOU SHOULD KNOW:

• An incompetent cervix is also called cervical insufficiency. The cervix is the bottom part of your uterus (womb). Normally, the cervix remains closed during pregnancy until your baby is ready to be born. A normal pregnancy lasts for about nine months. An incompetent cervix may begin to open at 4 to 6 months of pregnancy. The cervix begins to thin out and widen without pain or labor contractions. The amniotic sac, also called the bag of water, may bulge down into the opening of the cervix until it breaks. This may cause your baby to be born prematurely (early). There is no one cause of an incompetent cervix. An abnormal uterus or cervix or an injury to your cervix may put you at higher risk of having this condition. There are usually no signs and symptoms of an incompetent cervix. In some cases, you may have a backache, mucous discharge, or warm liquid coming from your vagina.
  
  
• A pelvic exam and ultrasound may be used to diagnose an incompetent cervix. To treat this condition, a pessary may be placed inside your vagina to support your cervix. A pessary is a rubber or plastic device. You may need surgery to tie the cervix closed until it is closer to the time of your delivery, when the tie will be removed. Finding and treating an incompetent cervix as early in the pregnancy as possible may help you have a normal pregnancy.

INSTRUCTIONS:

Ask for information about where and when to go for follow-up visits:

For continuing care, treatments, or home services, ask for more information.

Rest:

You may need to rest in bed, lying on your left side most of the time. Avoid heavy work such as lifting to prevent premature labor or delivery.

Do not smoke:

Smoking causes lung cancer and other long-term lung diseases. It increases your risk of many cancer types. Smoking also increases your risk of blood vessel disease, heart attack, and vision disorders. Not smoking may help prevent such symptoms as headaches and dizziness for yourself and those around you. Smokers have shorter lifespans than nonsmokers.

CONTACT A CAREGIVER IF:

• You have a fever.
  
  
• You have chills, cough, or feel weak and achy.
  
  
• Your skin is itchy, swollen, or has a rash.
  
  
• You have lower abdominal (stomach) or back pain that comes and goes.
  
  
• You have questions or concerns about your condition, medicine, or care.

SEEK CARE IMMEDIATELY IF:

• You have fluid coming from your vagina.
  
  
• You have foul smelling discharge coming from your vagina.
  
  
• You have regular contractions.
  
  
• You have vaginal bleeding.

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The above information is an educational aid only. It is not intended as medical advice for individual conditions or treatments. Talk to your doctor, nurse or pharmacist before following any medical regimen to see if it is safe and effective for you.

Learn more about Incompetent Cervix (Aftercare Instructions)