A cervical cerclage is a procedure that may be recommended to help support your pregnancy and reduce the risk of preterm birth. A cerclage helps keep your cervix closed so your body can continue to support your growing baby.
At Moreland OB-GYN, we understand that hearing you may need a procedure during pregnancy can feel overwhelming. Our experienced team is here to guide you with compassion and care, taking the time to answer your questions and help you feel confident in your pregnancy and birthing plan. Your health and your baby’s well-being are always our top priorities.
A cervical cerclage is a procedure in which a strong stitch is placed around the cervix to help keep it closed during pregnancy. The cervix is the lower part of the uterus that naturally opens during labor, but in some cases, it may begin to shorten or open too soon. The stitch helps provide added strength and support, allowing the cervix to remain closed as your pregnancy progresses.
Cerclage placement is typically performed during the second trimester and may be recommended for patients with a history of cervical insufficiency or other risk factors for preterm birth. By providing additional support to the cervix, this procedure can help reduce the risk of early delivery and support a healthier, longer pregnancy.
Your provider may recommend a cervical cerclage if there are signs during pregnancy that the cervix may not be able to remain closed on its own. These signs are often identified through routine prenatal care, such as OB ultrasounds, that show cervical shortening or changes earlier than expected.
Not every patient needs a cervical cerclage, but it may be recommended for those with certain risk factors or pregnancy history. You may be a candidate if you:
Experienced cervical insufficiency in a previous pregnancy
Have a history of second-trimester pregnancy loss
Have previously prematurely delivered a baby
Are found to have a short or opened cervix on ultrasound
Candidacy is also determined during your current pregnancy. If routine ultrasounds show the need, your provider may discuss whether a cerclage could be beneficial. Our goal is to identify concerns early and take proactive steps when appropriate.
At Moreland OB-GYN, we take a thoughtful, individualized approach when considering cerclage placement. Our team carefully reviews your history, monitors your pregnancy closely, and works with you to determine the best course of care to support a healthy pregnancy and outcome.
A cervical cerclage is most commonly performed during the second trimester of pregnancy, often between 12 and 24 weeks. The exact timing of a cervical cerclage depends on your individual situation and the reason for the procedure.
A cerclage may be placed earlier in pregnancy based on your medical history, especially if you‘ve had previous pregnancy complications. A later placement recommendation may occur if routine monitoring identifies cervical changes. Our providers carefully determine the appropriate timing to ensure the best possible support for your pregnancy.
A cervical cerclage is a relatively straightforward placement, and it is typically performed in a hospital or surgical setting. Before the procedure, you will receive instructions from your care team, and anesthesia will be used to help keep you comfortable throughout. The process usually takes less than an hour.
Our team at Moreland OB-GYN will provide detailed guidance on how to prepare, what to expect during recovery, and when to follow up.
After cerclage placement, most patients can return home the same day and resume many of their normal daily activities within a short period of time. Some mild cramping, spotting, or discomfort is common in the first few days and typically improves with rest.
Follow-up appointments are important to monitor your cervix and ensure everything is progressing as expected throughout your pregnancy.
Your provider may recommend temporarily limiting certain activities to support healing and reduce strain on the cervix after a cerclage procedure. These restrictions may include avoiding:
Heavy lifting
Strenuous exercise
Prolonged standing for a period of time
In some cases, you may also be advised to avoid intercourse or other activities that could place pressure on the cervix. These recommendations will vary based on your individual situation and the progression of your pregnancy.
Our team will provide personalized guidance based on your needs and help you understand which activities are safe to continue.
A cervical cerclage can provide important support during pregnancy and reduce the risk of preterm birth. For patients with certain risk factors, this added reinforcement can help prolong the pregnancy and support a healthier outcome for both mother and baby.
As with any medical treatment, there are some risks to consider. These may include:
Mild discomfort
Infection
Irritation around the cervix
In rare cases, the stitch may cause some additional pressure on the cervix or require closer monitoring. Our team is here to address any concerns promptly and ensure you are comfortable throughout your pregnancy.
Every pregnancy is unique, and when additional support is needed, having a trusted care team can make all the difference. At Moreland OB-GYN, we provide personalized, high-risk pregnancy care focused on close monitoring and compassionate support.
Our experienced providers work closely with you to understand your medical history, monitor your pregnancy, and recommend care that is tailored to your needs. Whether you require cerclage placement or other specialized services, we want you to feel confident and supported throughout your pregnancy journey.
If you have questions about cervical cerclage or would like to learn more about your care options, we are here to help.
Schedule an appointment with Moreland OB-GYN today to speak with a member of our team.
Looking for more pregnancy tips and guidance? Download our free Pregnancy Planning Kit and explore our additional resources below!
