What is cerclage? Why is it done and what are its benefits? And cervical isthmus incompetence? What is it and when does it become a risk for pregnancy? Cervical isthmus incompetence is when the cervix does not have enough strength and structure to support the weight of the pregnancy. The uterus becomes heavy and puts pressure on the cervix1. Because of this, gravity helps in the process and the cervix ends up opening, resulting in the loss of the pregnancy or possibly even a premature birth can occur. Everything depends on what stage of pregnancy the woman is in.

But just because a woman may have this problem in her cervix, it does not mean the pregnancy cannot move forward. There has been a method for suturing the cervix called cerclage for some time now2. In a surgical and very safe procedure for mother and baby, the cervix receives a few stitches so it does not open during pregnancy. A patient diagnosed with this syndrome may have to remain on complete bed rest for much of the pregnancy. This may be the biggest inconvenience, but it is a small price to pay for the great miracle that is bringing a baby into the world.

How to Diagnose Cervical Isthmic Incompetence?

Usually, cervical isthmus incompetence is diagnosed after several recurrent miscarriages with no apparent cause and a series of imaging tests; an extremely thin cervix and uteri with shallow cervical length can also be indicative. Some women need to undergo cerclage very early in the pregnancy, before the uterus becomes heavy enough to open the cervix due to the weight of the pregnancy.

Cervical isthmus incompetence is the solution for many women to carry their pregnancies to term and should be well received if the doctor recommends the procedure. Cerclage is performed at a maternity hospital and is simple, fast, and painless, since a local anesthetic is used to prevent pain. The treatment for cervical isthmus incompetence: Rest, cerclage, and thorough prenatal care. All these procedures together help the baby to be born strong and healthy. I found the video below on YouTube, it was made by Danielle Fênix who overcame IIC; after having two miscarriages, Ana Valentina, her little flower, was born.

Also see: Contractions, How to Tell When Labor Has Started?

Photo: Ryan