We are independent & ad-supported. We may earn a commission for purchases made through our links.
Advertiser Disclosure
Our website is an independent, advertising-supported platform. We provide our content free of charge to our readers, and to keep it that way, we rely on revenue generated through advertisements and affiliate partnerships. This means that when you click on certain links on our site and make a purchase, we may earn a commission. Learn more.
How We Make Money
We sustain our operations through affiliate commissions and advertising. If you click on an affiliate link and make a purchase, we may receive a commission from the merchant at no additional cost to you. We also display advertisements on our website, which help generate revenue to support our work and keep our content free for readers. Our editorial team operates independently of our advertising and affiliate partnerships to ensure that our content remains unbiased and focused on providing you with the best information and recommendations based on thorough research and honest evaluations. To remain transparent, we’ve provided a list of our current affiliate partners here.
Health

Our Promise to you

Founded in 2002, our company has been a trusted resource for readers seeking informative and engaging content. Our dedication to quality remains unwavering—and will never change. We follow a strict editorial policy, ensuring that our content is authored by highly qualified professionals and edited by subject matter experts. This guarantees that everything we publish is objective, accurate, and trustworthy.

Over the years, we've refined our approach to cover a wide range of topics, providing readers with reliable and practical advice to enhance their knowledge and skills. That's why millions of readers turn to us each year. Join us in celebrating the joy of learning, guided by standards you can trust.

What is an Incompetent Cervix?

Malcolm Tatum
By
Updated: May 17, 2024
Views: 10,747
Share

An incompetent cervix is an example of a weakened cervix. Essentially, a physical condition exists that causes the cervix to open prematurely during a pregnancy. The action generally occurs as the uterus begins to expand and the fetus grows, and dilation occurs early on during the pregnancy. As a result, a miscarriage may take place.

One of the characteristics of an incompetent cervix is that the condition cannot always be diagnosed ahead of time. There is often no type of contractions or other physical pain that indicates that the cervix is about to dilate. This can mean that the premature dilation may occur without any warning. If medical assistance is not received in a very short period of time, the chances of premature deliver of the fetus is very likely.

Generally, the recognition of an incompetent cervix will take place during the second trimester or in the early portion of the third trimester. The condition will include the expansion of the membranes surrounding the fetus out of the cervix and into the vagina. In short order, the membranes will break, and the fetus will emerge. Once the membrane has ruptured, the chances of saving the fetus and continuing the pregnancy are extremely low.

Fortunately, it is possible to detect the potential for an incompetent cervix as the pregnancy enters the second trimester. A qualified health professional can observe the condition of the cervix and have a reasonable idea if there is a chance of a problem developing. When an incompetent cervix is diagnosed, a procedure referred to as a cervical cerclage can be conducted. Essentially, the cerclage involves placing a couple of simple stitches around the cervix. This will help to inhibit the chances for premature delivery. Cerclage procedures have been an excellent tool in reducing the number of miscarriages that occur due to an incompetent cervix. At the same time, the stitches will help to prevent the fetus from being expelled as easily if the rate of dilation is greater than anticipated.

While it is not always possible to diagnose an incompetent cervix, consistent prenatal care can enhance the chances of identifying the potential problem. If the condition is caught in time, the changes for miscarriage can be greatly diminished, and the pregnancy can proceed to full term.

Share
WiseGeek is dedicated to providing accurate and trustworthy information. We carefully select reputable sources and employ a rigorous fact-checking process to maintain the highest standards. To learn more about our commitment to accuracy, read our editorial process.
Malcolm Tatum
By Malcolm Tatum
Malcolm Tatum, a former teleconferencing industry professional, followed his passion for trivia, research, and writing to become a full-time freelance writer. He has contributed articles to a variety of print and online publications, including WiseGeek, and his work has also been featured in poetry collections, devotional anthologies, and newspapers. When not writing, Malcolm enjoys collecting vinyl records, following minor league baseball, and cycling.

Editors' Picks

Discussion Comments
Malcolm Tatum
Malcolm Tatum
Malcolm Tatum, a former teleconferencing industry professional, followed his passion for trivia, research, and writing...
Learn more
Share
https://www.wisegeek.net/what-is-an-incompetent-cervix.htm
Copy this link
WiseGeek, in your inbox

Our latest articles, guides, and more, delivered daily.

WiseGeek, in your inbox

Our latest articles, guides, and more, delivered daily.