Incompetent cervix can cause premature dilation during pregnancy, leading to miscarriage. It is often difficult to diagnose early, but can be detected in the second trimester. Cervical cerclage can help prevent premature birth and miscarriage. Consistent prenatal care can increase chances of identifying the problem.
An incompetent cervix is an example of a weakened cervix. Basically, there is a physical condition that causes the cervix to open prematurely during pregnancy. The action generally occurs as the uterus begins to expand and the fetus grows, and dilation occurs in early pregnancy. As a result, a miscarriage may occur.
One of the characteristics of an incompetent cervix is that the condition cannot always be diagnosed early. Often there isn’t any kind of twitching or other physical pain that indicates that the cervix is about to dilate. This can mean that premature dilation can occur without any warning. If medical assistance is not received in a very short period of time, the chances of premature birth of the fetus are very likely.
Generally, recognition of an incompetent cervix will occur during the second trimester or early part of the third trimester. The condition will include expansion of the membranes surrounding the fetus outside the cervix and into the vagina. Before long, the membranes will rupture and the fetus will emerge. Once the membrane has ruptured, the chances of saving the fetus and continuing the pregnancy are extremely low.
Fortunately, the potential for an incompetent cervix can be detected as the pregnancy enters the second trimester. A qualified healthcare professional can look at the condition of the cervix and get a reasonable idea of whether there is a chance a problem could develop. When an incompetent cervix is diagnosed, a procedure called cervical cerclage may be done. Essentially, cerclage involves placing a couple of simple stitches around the cervix. This will help inhibit the chances of premature birth. Cerclage procedures have been an excellent tool in reducing the number of miscarriages that occur due to an incompetent cervix. At the same time, the stitches will help prevent the expulsion of the fetus just as easily if the dilation rate is greater than expected.
While it’s not always possible to diagnose an incompetent cervix, consistent prenatal care can increase your chances of identifying the potential problem. If the condition is caught early, changes for miscarriage can be greatly reduced and the pregnancy can proceed to full term.
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