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.