Cervical cerclage is a technique wherein the surgeon uses the sutures to close the cervix. Generally, it is done during pregnancy to avoid the chances of premature birth. It is done among women with a weak, short cervix.

The two ways with which the cervical cerclage is performed are-

• Transvaginal cervical cerclage which is done through the vagina
• Trans-abdominal cervical cerclage which is done through the abdomen before the woman is pregnant

When the woman reaches the full term that is during the 37th week of pregnancy, these sutures are removed. Your doctor may recommend cervical cerclage if there is a risk of the opening of the cervix before attaining full-term pregnancy. In some cases, the cervix starts opening too early, which leads to premature birth.

Cervical cerclage is not beneficial for every woman. Moreover, it is not the only way to prevent the chances of early delivery. Therefore, your doctor will examine you properly and only after that she will recommend you for the surgery.

Why is cervical cerclage required?

Cervix is a closed and rigid structure. However, during pregnancy, the muscles around the cervix lose and softens. The cervix starts preparing for the pregnancy by slowly decreasing in length (effacing) and dilating (opening). If the woman has a weak cervix, it might open up very soon due to which the chances of premature birth increase.

Under the following conditions, the cervical cerclage becomes essential-

• If there is a history of miscarriages in the second trimester
• You have delivered premature baby earlier due to unidentifiable causes
• The ultrasound reports show that you have a short cervix
• Prior cervix injury
• Cervical dilation with a visible amniotic sac before week 24 of pregnancy

Are there any risks involved?

Although cervical cerclage becomes necessary to avoid premature birth in certain cases, the doctor will discourage it if you experience-

• Vaginal bleeding
• Preterm labor
• Intrauterine infection
• Multiple pregnancies
• Risk of miscarriage due to fetal abnormality
• Premature rupture of membranes
• Prolapsed fetal membranes

What to expect with laparoscopic cervical cerclage?

Laparoscopic cervical cerclage is a minimally invasive surgery that is done under the influence of general anesthesia. It is done when there is a previously failed vaginal cerclage. It is done in non-pregnant stage that is before the lady plans next pregnancy.

Being a surgical procedure, there are a few risks associated with laparoscopic cervical cerclage. These are-

• Infection
• Bleeding

Therefore, it is very important to consult only highly experienced surgeons to eliminate the chances of complications.

What are the results of the surgery?

Laparoscopic cervical cerclage helps to prolong the pregnancy and prevent the chances of premature birth among women with weak or incompetent cervix. It is highly beneficial for those who have experienced multiple miscarriages and premature births.

It is very important to consult your doctor on time because the later you get the cervical cerclage, the greater are the chances of complications. Time is a crucial factor in cervical cerclage surgery. If you have a successful pregnancy after cervical cerclage, you might need it for future pregnancies as well.

Dr. Sumina Reddy is one of the most renowned and the best gynecologists in Hyderabad. With years of experience and profound knowledge, she can deal with any complex gynecological case easily.

Visit Dr. Sumina Reddy Clinic to know more about laparoscopic cervical cerclage.