QuestionI have delivered two premature children with an incomptence cervical, i am wondering will i ever be able to carry a full term baby. What can i do, i am wanting one more baby!
AnswerHi,
Since you were diagnosed with cervical incompetence during your other pregnancies,you have an incompetent cervix which is a factor in subsequent pregnancies until proved otherwise. Unfortunately, there is no way to diagnose cervical incompetence before a pregnancy.
A OB may "stitch" the cervix to keep the opening closed during subsequent pregnancies before anything happens. In a procedure called cerclage, sutures are placed above the opening of the cervix to narrow the canal and reinforce the cervical muscle. The sutures may stay in place or be removed as the pregnancy approaches term, depending on the type of cerclage that was used. Generally, cerclage is done before 20 weeks of pregnancy.
Even with cerclage, a woman with an incompetent cervix has a 25% risk for preterm birth. Commonly, a woman requires bed rest and treatment for preterm labor during the pregnancy
Your also at a higher risk of second trimester miscarriage.
Talk with your OB about the risks and any pre-pregnancy planning. You may have a very good chance at another pregnancy with close physcian support. It's best to talk with a doctor who can help you decide.
