Now accepting Telehealth appointments. Contact us to schedule a virtual visit.
Skip to main content

Are You at Risk for Cervical Incompetence?

Although cervical incompetence is relatively uncommon, it can have a devastating impact, causing affected women to lose their pregnancies during the second trimester. If you’re expecting or planning to start your family, you may be wondering if you’re at risk for cervical incompetence and what to do if you’re diagnosed with the condition.  

At Darin Swainston, MD. FACOG, gynecological surgeon Dr. Darin Swainston and OB/GYN Daniel Richards, DO are committed to helping women in Las Vegas, Nevada, have safe, healthy pregnancies. As part of our commitment, we offer comprehensive gynecological and obstetric services, include abdominal cerclage for women suffering from an incompetent cervix.

Read on to learn if you’re at risk for cervical incompetence and how you can keep your baby safe if you’ve been diagnosed with this condition.   

What is cervical incompetence? 

Located at the top of your vagina, your cervix serves as the entryway to your uterus. Before you get pregnant, the cervix is firm and closed. As your pregnancy progresses, your cervix softens gradually, lengthening and opening to prepare for childbirth. 

Some women have a condition called cervical incompetence, or cervical insufficiency. When you have an incompetent cervix, the cervical tissues are weakened and can open too soon, resulting in preterm birth or miscarriage. 

Am I at risk for cervical incompetence?

Although cervical insufficiency isn’t common, affecting only 1% of pregnancies in America, it is responsible for over one-quarter of second-trimester miscarriages. Many women who experience cervical incompetence had no idea they were at risk. 

While it’s impossible to prevent an incompetent cervix, knowing your risk factors can help reduce your chances of miscarriage by encouraging early treatment. The following conditions increase your risk for cervical insufficiency:

If you have one or more of these risk factors, it’s essential to seek medical attention as early as possible to avoid miscarriage or preterm birth. Early prenatal visits with Dr. Richards or Dr. Swainston help your provider monitor your health and the health of your baby. 

What are the treatment options for cervical incompetence?

Once Dr. Swainston or Dr. Richards determine you have a high risk for cervical incompetence, they make plans to monitor your pregnancy closely using ultrasound technology during the first and second trimesters. 

A procedure called transabdominal cerclage (TAC) is the gold standard in treating cervical incompetence, and it is typically performed before pregnancy or in the first trimester. Your provider makes a small incision in your lower abdomen and places a woven band high on your cervix. 

The band is made of synthetic material and provides support to the cervix, stopping it from opening during pregnancy and preventing miscarriage. TAC has a success rate of over 99% in preventing pregnancy loss, even for women with the most challenging cases of cervical insufficiency.  

Ready to learn more about cervical incompetence and if TAC could be the treatment method for you? Contact Dr. Swainston or Dr. Richards at our Las Vegas office or request an appointment online today.

You Might Also Enjoy...

The Link Between Fibroids and Infertility

If you have fibroids, you’re one of the 35 million women affected by these non-cancerous uterine tumors. You may also feel concerned about how they might affect your ability to conceive. Learn what you need to know here!

5 Signs of Endometriosis You Should Never Ignore

Worried endometriosis may be behind your heavy or painful periods? You could be right. There are other symptoms caused by endometriosis that you should be aware of. Learn more about the top 5 signs of this condition.

What Most Don't Realize About Cervical Incompetence

Even if you’ve heard of cervical incompetence, there may be things you don’t know about this troublesome condition. An incompetent cervix can spell trouble for pregnant moms, so take a few minutes to learn the top five things you should know.

Life After an Ectopic Pregnancy

An ectopic pregnancy is an emotionally and physically draining experience. Getting the right care can help you recover and even get pregnant again in the future. Keep reading to learn more about life after an ectopic pregnancy.

Signs Your Ovarian Cyst Needs to Be Removed

Since most women develop at least one ovarian cyst each month, it can be challenging to know when they’re problematic and even harder to tell when a cyst requires surgical removal. Keep reading to learn what you need to know.