Table of Contents
What is cervical insufficiency?
A weak cervix is characterized by the fact that the cervix is shorter and softer than normal. This allows the cervix to open earlier during pregnancy. In this case, the birth would be premature. Therefore, it is of course important to detect a weak cervix as early as possible. This can be done with a simple ultrasound scan. The more the pregnancy progresses, the more noticeable a weakness of the cervix becomes. The weakened closure apparatus of the uterus can no longer be held. The cervix then opens early, usually before the 37th week of pregnancy. After all, 1 in 100 women have a weak cervix.
What are the symptoms associated with a weak cervix?
That is different. Some women have no symptoms at all at first. Others experience pain similar to menstrual cramps. A pull above the pubic bone or the back also occurs.
What are the causes of a weak cervix?
Unfortunately, there are some risk factors. Infections in the uterus can cause the cervix to shorten and soften. But a general weakness of the connective tissue can also promote a weak cervix. Multiple births can also promote cervical insufficiency. In general, earlier births play a major role. If the pregnant woman had a ruptured membrane before the 37th week of pregnancy, the risk of cervical insufficiency increases in the next pregnancy. Operations on the uterus can also lead to this weakness. The lifestyle of the expectant mother also plays a role. For example, smoking inhibits certain enzymes in the body that are important for building connective tissue.
How is the diagnosis made?
If the pregnant woman suffers from increased back pain or abdominal discomfort, she should tell her doctor about it. If the woman has other risk factors, the doctor will perform a vaginal examination. If he suspects during this examination that there is a weakness in the cervix, he will carry out further diagnostics. With the help of an ultrasound of the cervix, he can see exactly whether there is a weakness of the cervix. If this is the case, action must be taken to avoid premature birth.
What treatment options are there?
It always depends a little on the cause. If the cervix is the result of an infection, antibiotics can help. Otherwise, the most important thing is rest. Since the pregnant woman should be strictly bed rest, hospitalization is the most sensible option in some cases. Especially when the woman is already a mother, bed rest at home will not always be that easy. Physical exertion should also be avoided at all costs. Everything must be done to prevent premature birth. Every day really counts. Avoiding nicotine during pregnancy is a matter of course. But now people who have contact with the pregnant woman should not smoke in her presence.
In some cases, it is certainly possible and necessary to use anti-convulsant medication. These are usually administered by vein. However, these medications can only hold off the onset of labor for a few days. When the 34th week of pregnancy is over, these drugs are usually no longer used. The child is sufficiently mature and has very good chances of survival.
There is also the option of surgically closing the cervix. In a so-called cerclage, a plastic band is placed around the cervix. This band is only removed shortly before delivery. However, this method is controversial and should be discussed well with the doctor.
Can a weak cervix be prevented?
Conditionally you can do that for sure. Anyone who eats healthily, does not smoke, drinks little alcohol and pays attention to a healthy body weight already has an advantage here. During pregnancy, it is also advisable to limit heavy physical labor and excessive exercise. Anyone who has a job that is physically or mentally stressful should discuss a possible employment ban with their doctor.
