Short cervix during pregnancy

One of the most common causes of miscarriage is a cervix that is too short. This is a pathological condition in which the length of the cervix is shorter than normal for a given term of pregnancy. It develops asymptomatically and is detected during a routine ultrasound. Regular examinations and diagnostics play a key role in the rapid detection of this pathology.

Causes of a short cervix during pregnancy

A shortening of the cervix is observed in one out of ten pregnant women. The pathology is usually detected between the 15th and 20th week of pregnancy. Vaginal discharge and lower abdominal pain may indicate a risk of miscarriage.

The critical length of the cervix at 20 weeks is considered to be 3 cm, as a reduction in length increases the risk of premature cervical opening and the threat of miscarriage. If, at the end of the second trimester, its length is 2 cm, surgical intervention is indicated to prevent preterm delivery.

Among the causes of a short cervix during pregnancy, the following are distinguished:

• Mechanical injuries, anatomical malformations (congenital anomalies, trauma during childbirth, abortion);
• Hormonal disorders;
• Pressure on the isthmic area of the cervix (in the case of multiple pregnancies, polyuria).

Symptoms of a short cervix during pregnancy

In 80% of women, the pathology is asymptomatic. That is why it is important to perform regular ultrasounds to monitor the condition of the cervix. However, in addition to the ultrasound results, the following signs may indicate cervical shortening:

• Watery and bloody vaginal discharge;
• Pulling pains in the lower abdomen that, over time, acquire a contraction-like character;
• Cervical canal insufficiency, which can lead to ascending genital infections such as endometritis, chorioamnionitis, and others.

Treatment of a short cervix during pregnancy

To confirm the diagnosis, a gynecological examination, a cervimetry, and hormonal level determinations are performed. If necessary, consultations with an endocrinologist, immunologist, and infectious disease specialist are organized.

The treatment depends on the duration of the pregnancy, the degree of shortening of the cervix, the presence or absence of a threat of miscarriage, as well as the history of habitual miscarriages or preterm delivery.

All pregnant women with a shortened cervix are advised to reduce their physical activity, avoid emotional upheavals, and ensure they rest and sleep enough. They are also advised to wear a bandage to support their growing abdomen.

Antispasmodics and tocolytics may be prescribed to reduce uterine tone. These medications should only be prescribed by a doctor and should be closely monitored to avoid side effects. In case of endocrine disorders affecting the reproductive system, hormonal medications are prescribed.

If necessary, a pessary (obstetric ring) can be used. The pessary is placed on the cervix to ensure its closure and prevent its opening. The pessary is chosen individually, based on the size of the organ.

Between 14 and 25 weeks, a surgical intervention called cervical cerclage is possible. This involves placing circular or U-shaped sutures on the cervix. The sutures are removed after the amniotic fluid has drained, the onset of labor, at 38 weeks of pregnancy, or in case of bleeding.

If the doctor's recommendations are followed and after proper treatment, even with a short cervix, the probability of carrying the child to 38-40 weeks is significantly increased. In most cases, women with this pathology succeed in carrying and giving birth to healthy children, which is confirmed by positive examples and statistics of successful pregnancies.

Support from specialists at the NatuVitro clinic

The obstetricians and gynecologists at the NatuVitro clinic have extensive experience in managing pregnant women, including those with pathologies. The doctors conduct thorough examinations and take preventive measures so that the woman can carry and give birth to a healthy child.

You can also visit the Treatment section of our website to learn more about in vitro fertilization (IVF) procedures, including IVF with egg donation and IVF with double donation.