What are the other Names for this Condition? (Also known as/Synonyms)

• Cervical Insufficiency
• Incompetent Cervix

What is Cervical Incompetence? (Definition/Background Information)

• Cervical Incompetence, also known as Cervical Insufficiency, is a condition where the cervix (the lower part of the uterus that opens into the vagina) is unable to retain a pregnancy until term due to its weakness and inability to stay closed during pregnancy
• This condition can lead to premature labor and delivery, resulting in serious health consequences for both the mother and child, including miscarriage and stillbirth
• Cervical Incompetence is mostly observed in women with prior cervical surgery, a history of preterm delivery, or multiple pregnancies. In some cases, an abnormally-shaped cervix can be a contributory factor to the condition
• The treatment of Cervical Incompetence may involve adequate bed rest, medications, and a procedure termed cervical cerclage (cervical stitch) for treating a weak cervix. The prognosis is generally good with early recognition and proper management of the condition

Who gets Cervical Incompetence? (Age and Sex Distribution)

Cervical Incompetence can affect pregnant women of any age range.

• It is more common in women with previous cervical trauma or surgery such as cervical cone biopsy or cervical dilation for previous pregnancy termination
• It is also more common in women with a history of preterm delivery or multiple pregnancies

What are the Risk Factors for Cervical Incompetence? (Predisposing Factors)

The risk factors for Cervical Incompetence may include:

• Previous cervical surgery or trauma
• Previous preterm delivery
• Multiple pregnancies
• Abnormal cervical shape or length
• Genetic factors
• Infection or inflammation of the cervix

It is important to note that having a risk factor does not mean that one will get the condition. A risk factor increases one’s chances of getting a condition compared to an individual without the risk factors. Some risk factors are more important than others.

Also, not having a risk factor does not mean that an individual will not get the condition. It is always important to discuss the effect of risk factors with your healthcare provider.

What are the Causes of Cervical Incompetence? (Etiology)

• Currently, the exact cause of Cervical Incompetence is not fully understood
• However, it is believed to be caused by structural weakness or damage to the cervix, which may be due to previous cervical surgery or trauma, certain genetic factors, or an abnormal shape or length of the cervix

What are the Signs and Symptoms of Cervical Incompetence?

The signs and symptoms of Cervical Incompetence may include:

• Vaginal discharge
• Pelvic pressure
• Low back pain
• Uterine contractions
• Vaginal bleeding
• Shortening and dilation of the cervix

How is Cervical Incompetence Diagnosed?

• Cervical Incompetence can be diagnosed through a combination of medical history, physical examination, and imaging tests, such as transvaginal ultrasound
• The healthcare professional may also perform a test involving cervical length measurement to assess the length and thickness of the cervix

Many clinical conditions may have similar signs and symptoms. Your healthcare provider may perform additional tests to rule out other clinical conditions to arrive at a definitive diagnosis.

What are the possible Complications of Cervical Incompetence?

The complications of Cervical Incompetence may include:

• Preterm labor and delivery
• Infection of the uterus or surrounding tissues
• Rupture of the membranes (water breaking) too early
• Bleeding during pregnancy
• Miscarriage or stillbirth

How is Cervical Incompetence Treated?

• The treatment for Cervical Incompetence typically involves a procedure called cervical cerclage, where a stitch is placed around the cervix to help keep it closed during pregnancy
• Bed rest and medications to prevent preterm labor may also be recommended
• In severe cases, hospitalization and close monitoring may be necessary

How can Cervical Incompetence be Prevented?

Cervical Incompetence may not be preventable, but certain steps can be taken to reduce the risk. These include:

• Avoiding cervical trauma or surgery to the region (where possible)
• Receiving appropriate prenatal care
• Managing any underlying medical conditions that may increase the risk

What is the Prognosis of Cervical Incompetence? (Outcomes/Resolutions)

• The prognosis for Cervical Incompetence depends on the severity of the condition and how early it is diagnosed and treated
• With appropriate early treatment, most women can carry their pregnancy to term.

Additional and Relevant Useful Information for Cervical Incompetence:

The following link is a useful resource for information on other pregnancy-related conditions on DoveMed:

https://www.dovemed.com/diseases-conditions/pregnancy-related-disorders/