A dysfunction of the cervix of the uterus which is often the cause of spontaneous abortions and premature births and can be remedied by Shirodkar’s operation.
Structural inability of the cervical os to remain closed and support a growing fetus. This problem commonly has been associated with recurrent spontaneous second-trimester abortions. A higher incidence of this structural abnormality is noted after cervical trauma (e.g., previous vaginal or cesarean births, cervical laceration, conization of the cervix). It also has been reported among daughters whose mothers were treated with diethylstilbestrol (DES) during their pregnancies. Traditionally, cerclage has been used for treatment, even though controlled trials of its effectiveness have not been uniformly successful.
Incompetent cervix refers to the abnormal weakness of the cervix, which is the neck of the uterus, and it can lead to recurrent miscarriages. Normally, the cervix remains closed until the onset of labor. However, in the case of an incompetent cervix, it may gradually widen due to the pressure exerted by the fetus starting around the 12th week of pregnancy, or it may suddenly open during the second trimester.
The diagnosis of an incompetent cervix can be made through a pelvic examination or by utilizing ultrasound scanning. Treatment typically involves the application of a suture, similar to a purse string, around the cervix around the 12th week of pregnancy. This suture remains in place until the pregnancy reaches or nears full term. At that point, it is cut to enable the mother to deliver the baby through a normal delivery process.