Our Health Library information does not replace the advice of a doctor. Please be advised that this information is made available to assist our patients to learn more about their health. Our providers may not see and/or treat all topics found herein. Cervical insufficiency means that the cervix can't stay tightly closed during the second trimester of pregnancy. Instead, the cervix opens (dilates) with little or no pain, usually before 24 weeks. This can lead to miscarriage or birth of a premature baby. You may also hear this condition called a weak cervix or an incompetent cervix. A weak cervix is different from preterm labor. Labor causes regular, painful contractions of the uterus. It's not clear what causes cervical insufficiency. But it has been linked to: With cervical insufficiency, the cervix usually opens without pain. But some people do have mild symptoms. If you have this condition, you may have: If you have any of these symptoms, call your doctor right away. Symptoms sometimes start days or weeks before the cervix dilates. You have cervical insufficiency when your cervix has opened with little or no pain during the second trimester. But it is often hard to know you have it before the cervix opens, when treatment might help keep the cervix closed. If you have had it in a past pregnancy, your doctor will want to check you often. To diagnose cervical insufficiency early, your doctor can: If your cervix is showing signs of change in your second trimester, your treatment choices may include: Your doctor will check your cervix often. The doctor may use ultrasound, pelvic exams, or both. For some people, cervical cerclage helps hold the cervix closed with a few stitches. The stitches are later taken out before labor starts. Current as of: July 10, 2023 Author: Ignite Healthwise, LLC Staff Current as of: July 10, 2023 Author: Ignite Healthwise, LLC Staff Clinical Review Board This information does not replace the advice of a doctor. Ignite Healthwise, LLC disclaims any warranty or liability for your use of this information. Your use of this information means that you agree to the Terms of Use and Privacy Policy. Learn how we develop our content. To learn more about Ignite Healthwise, LLC, visit webmdignite.com. © 2024 Ignite Healthwise, LLC. Healthwise, Healthwise for every health decision, and the Healthwise logo are trademarks of Ignite Healthwise, LLC.Topic Contents
Cervical Insufficiency
Condition Basics
What is cervical insufficiency?
What causes it?
What are the symptoms?
How is it diagnosed?
How is cervical insufficiency treated?
Related Information
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Clinical Review Board
All Healthwise education is reviewed by a team that includes physicians, nurses, advanced practitioners, registered dieticians, and other healthcare professionals.
All Healthwise education is reviewed by a team that includes physicians, nurses, advanced practitioners, registered dieticians, and other healthcare professionals.
Our Health Library information does not replace the advice of a doctor. Please be advised that this information is made available to assist our patients to learn more about their health. Our providers may not see and/or treat all topics found herein. Current as of: July 10, 2023 Author: Ignite Healthwise, LLC Staff Clinical Review BoardCervical Insufficiency
All Healthwise education is reviewed by a team that includes physicians, nurses, advanced practitioners, registered dieticians, and other healthcare professionals.