Ideally during pregnancy, the cervix (the lower part of the uterus or “opening” to the uterus) remains closed until you are ready to give birth. Then it begins to soften, shorten and dilate (open) to prepare for delivery. Cervical insufficiency, also known as incompetent cervix, occurs when the cervix is weak and dilates, softens or shortens too soon during the pregnancy. When this happens, the cervix is not strong enough to keep the growing baby inside and may cause a miscarriage (pregnancy loss) or premature birth.

Cervical insufficiency can be treated. Our MFM specialists can help you avoid these possible complications and are here to support you along the way.

If you have been diagnosed with cervical insufficiency, we want you to remember it is not your fault. There is nothing you did to cause it. You cannot control if or when cervical insufficiency happens, but we can help you treat it.

Most pregnant women with cervical insufficiency do not have pain and may not notice if or when changes occur. Other women may experience mild symptoms that the cervix is changing too early, such as:

• Lower backaches 
• Mild stomach cramps
• Pressure in the pelvic area
• Vaginal discharge
• Spotting or light bleeding in the second trimester

To diagnose cervical insufficiency, our MFM specialists will perform a physical exam and ask about your medical and obstetric history. If you had cervical insufficiency during a prior pregnancy or have a history of miscarriage or preterm delivery in the second trimester (13-26 weeks), you are at a higher risk of experiencing cervical insufficiency again. You will be closely monitored by our team to prevent complications.

During diagnosis, our team may perform:

• A pelvic exam
• A transvaginal ultrasound (through the vagina) to check your cervix
• Additional tests, such as amniocentesis, to check a sample of amniotic fluid

We offer the latest treatment options and procedures at the Center for Maternal Fetal Medicine, including surgery, if necessary. All of our procedures are personalized to fit your individual diagnosis and pregnancy needs.

Our experienced specialists will work with you to find the best care plan for a successful pregnancy and delivery. Your treatment may include:

• Modifications to daily activity.
• Frequent ultrasound exams to evaluate your cervix.
• Progesterone supplements to prevent changes to your cervix or premature labor.
• Transvaginal or transabdominal cerclage placement to stitch the cervix closed to prevent premature labor. This procedure is often performed at the end of the first trimester or beginning of the second trimester.
• Admission to Orlando Health Winnie Palmer Hospital for Women & Babies if your condition requires closer monitoring.