Premature Cervical Dilatation

Question 1

● Cervix that dilates prematurely and therefore cannot
hold a fetus until term
● Previously termed an incompetent cervix

Answer 1

PREMATURE CERVICAL DILATATION

Question 2

RISK FACTORS

Answer 2

● Increased maternal age
● Congenital structural defects
● Trauma to the cervix, such as might have occurred
with a cone biopsy or repeated D & Cs

Question 2

SIGNS AND SYMPTOMS

Answer 2

● Painless dilatation
● Presence of show
● Increased pelvic pressure
● Followed by rupture of the membranes & discharge
of the amniotic fluid
● Uterine contractions

Question 3

○ As soon as a sonogram confirms that the fetus
of a second pregnancy is healthy, at
approximately weeks 12 to 14, purse-string
sutures are placed in the cervix by the vaginal
route under regional anesthesia

Answer 3

Cervical Cerclage

Question 4

A woman would not be eligible for a cerclage if:

Answer 4

○ There is increased irritation of the cervix
○ The cervix has dilated 4cm
○ Membranes have ruptured