The cervix may shorten further when pressure is put on the uterus. Some women complain of pelvic heaviness, or lots of discharge. Often when they see their provider they are found to have a very dilated cervix with the bag of waters coming out. Many times a cause cannot be found. Impact on Pregnancy Incompetent cervix may cause miscarriage at 18-24 weeks.
Treatment is with cervical cerclage or prolonged strict bedrest.
A stitch is placed high up around the cervix to keep it closed. An ultrasound is done prior to placement of the cerclage to make sure the fetus looks healthy. The stitch is usually placed from the vagina. Occasionally, when the cervix is very damaged and previous attempts at cerclage placed through the vagina have not been successful, the stitch is placed through an abdominal incision. Abdominal cerclage requires a cesarean section to delivery the baby.