What is cervical incompetence?
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Stacy Wiegman answered:Cervical incompetence is a very unfortunate term for when the cervix does not stay closed during pregnancy, leading to premature labor. It does not occur in the first trimester because the fetus and placenta are too small to put enough pressure on the cervix. Later in pregnancy, however, as the weight of the fetus and placenta grow, if the cervix is "incompetent," it will show up on ultrasound as "coning," where the cervix is losing length and is at risk for opening.
Women who have had cervical surgery (such as a cone biopsy for cervical cancer) are at risk for cervical incompetence because now the cervix is shorter. But it's impossible to tell until the woman is pregnant if the cervix will be a problem. Some women, like me, have multiple cervical surgeries and have no problems with pregnancy.
Cervical incompetence is a very unfortunate term for when the cervix does not stay closed during pregnancy, leading to premature labor. It does not occur in the first trimester because the fetus and placenta are too small to put enough pressure on... More -
Dr. Dorcas McLennan of Swedish answered:Cervical incompetence happens when the cervix dilates during the second trimester. Because there are no contractions or pain, you could be totally unaware it is happening. In many cases, the causes are unknown. If you have this condition, the amniotic sac may push partially into the vagina and lead to premature delivery.
In some cases, this process can be diagnosed early enough that a cerclage (or stitch) can be placed to hold the cervix closed and prolong the pregnancy..
Cervical incompetence happens when the cervix dilates during the second trimester. Because there are no contractions or pain, you could be totally unaware it is happening. In many cases, the causes are unknown. If you have this condition, the... More
