Understanding Cerclage

How to say it 

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Why cerclage is done

Cerclage is done to prevent the loss or early birth of a child. It’s done if you are pregnant and have a weak or short cervix. You otherwise may not be able to carry a baby to full term.

Your cervix may be weak because of an injury, such as from a past procedure like dilation. Or you may have been born with a weak cervix. If you've lost a pregnancy or given birth early in the past, you're more likely to need a cerclage.

How cerclage is done

This procedure is often done on an outpatient basis. That means you can go home afterward. During the procedure:

• You are given medicine so you don’t feel pain. You may be awake or asleep.

• The surgeon puts a speculum into your vagina. It helps the surgeon see the cervix better.

• Your bladder is emptied.

• Forceps are used to hold the cervix in place.

• The surgeon closes the cervix with stitches (sutures).

Risks of cerclage

These include:

• Bleeding.

• Infection.

• Injury to the cervix.

• Rupture of the bag of water (amniotic sac).