INCOMPETENT CERVIX FACTS

Being diagnosed with incompetent cervix or cervical insufficiency or cervical weakness can be a scary time. We have collected a list of frequently asked questions including incompetent cervix symptoms and risk factors so that you can make informed decisions about your care.

A list of helpful online resources will be available on our site soon.

What is an incompetent or insufficient cervix?

An incompetent cervix, also called a cervical insufficiency, occurs when weak cervical tissue causes or contributes to premature birth or the loss of an otherwise healthy pregnancy. Before pregnancy, your cervix — the lower part of the uterus that opens to the vagina — is normally closed and firm. (via mayoclinic.org)

What are the symptoms?

• A sensation of pelvic pressure

• A new backache

• Mild abdominal cramps

• A change in vaginal discharge

• Light vaginal bleeding

How do I know if I’m at risk?

Many women don't have a known risk factor. Risk factors for cervical insufficiency include:

• Cervical trauma. Some surgical procedures used to treat cervical abnormalities associated with an abnormal Pap smear can result in cervical insufficiency. Other surgical procedures such as a D&C could also be associated with cervical insufficiency. Rarely, a cervical tear during a previous labor and delivery could be associated with an incompetent cervix.

• Race. Black women seem to have a higher risk of developing cervical insufficiency. It isn't clear why.

• Congenital conditions. Uterine abnormalities and genetic disorders affecting a fibrous type of protein that makes up your body's connective tissues (collagen) might cause an incompetent cervix.

• Ehlers-Danlos syndrome, which is a disorder that affects your connective tissues such as your skin, joints, and blood vessels

• Marfan syndrome, which is a condition that often affects the heart, eyes, blood vessels, and skeleton

• Exposure to diethylstilbestrol (DES), a synthetic (human-made) hormone given to some women in the past to help them have successful pregnancies. (via clevelandclinic.org)

How is it diagnosed?

Usually found by incidental findings during the anatomy scan around 19-20 weeks gestational age, it is typically very hard to get a diagnosis without multiple second term losses.

What complications are associated with an incompetent cervix?

An incompetent cervix can cause complications including miscarriage and premature birth. In rare cases, a cerclage may involve complications including: (via webmd and clevelandclinic.org)

• Rupture (sudden bursting) of the uterus.

• Internal bleeding.

• Laceration (cut or tear) on the cervix.

• Infection.

Is there a cure?

There is not a cure for an incompetent cervix. There are a few treatments options that can be tried including; Bedrest, Progesterone, and/or a cervical cerclage are the typical treatment options for incompetent cervix. (via mayoclinic.org)

It can be jarring and/or scary to be diagnosed with what's considered a "rare" condition. It's important to remember you are not alone.