At the Forefront - UChicago Medicine

Transvaginal Cervical Cerclage

For women with incompetent cervix (also called cervical insufficiency), our specialists may recommend transvaginal cervical cerclage. Performed by high-risk obstetricians (maternal-fetal medicine physician) this surgical procedure secures a short or weak cervix, minimizing the risk of miscarriage or premature delivery.

In a transvaginal cerclage, there is no surgical incision. The doctor sews the cervix shut with a suture placed through the vagina, usually during the 13th or 14th week of the pregnancy. This method creates a "purse string" around the cervix, which helps reduce the risk of pregnancy loss. At about 37 weeks, the doctor removes the stitches so that a vaginal delivery is possible.

If you are a candidate for transvaginal cerclage, discuss the benefits and risks with your doctor. Based on personal factors, such as your medical history and the length of your cervix, our team may recommend that you have transvaginal cerclage or transabdominal cerclage.

Meet Our Maternal-Fetal Medicine Specialists

Our high-risk pregnancy doctors provide exceptional maternal-fetal care for patients referred from throughout the region, including several counties in Illinois and Northwest Indiana.

Our specialists often engage a broader team of UChicago Medicine or Comer Children's experts to collaborate in planning the best and safest care possible — especially for the most challenging diagnoses and conditions.

Refer a Patient: 773-702-6118

Request an Appointment

We are currently experiencing a high volume of inquiries, leading to delayed response times. For faster assistance, please call 1-888-824-0200 to schedule your appointment.

If you have symptoms of an urgent nature, please call your doctor or go to the emergency room immediately.

To refer a patient or to speak to someone directly, please call 773-702-6118.

By submitting this form you acknowledge the risk of sending this information by email and agree not to hold the University of Chicago or University of Chicago Medical Center liable for any damages you may incur as a result of the transfer or use of this information. The use or transmittal of this form does not create a physician-contact relationship. More information regarding the confidentiality of this request can be found in our Privacy Policy.

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By submitting this form you acknowledge the risk of sending this information by email and agree not to hold the University of Chicago or University of Chicago Medical Center liable for any damages you may incur as a result of the transfer or use of this information. The use or transmittal of this form does not create a physician-contact relationship. More information regarding the confidentiality of this request can be found in our Privacy Policy.