Cervical Incompetence

OVERVIEW

Cervical incompetence refers to the painless dilation/effacement of the cervix before the term of the pregnancy (often this will happen in the second trimester).

WHAT MAKES US SUSPECT IT?

Risk Factors:

History of cervical surgery (cone biopsy/dilation of the cervix), history of cervical lacerations with vaginal delivery, uterine anomalies.

Initial Presentation:

  • Vaginal bleeding
  • Pelvic pressure

Physical Exam:

Gynecological exam can reveal a dilated cervix (much before the onset of labor).

CLINICAL WORKUP

Ultrasound can show the presence of:

  • A funneled lower uterine segment
  • A dilated internal cervical os
WHAT ELSE ARE WE WORRIED ABOUT?

Loss of the fetus: opening of the cervix exposes the fetus to the vaginal flora (increases the chance of infection) and increases the risk of traumatic injury. This can lead to loss of the fetus in the second trimester.

ARCHIVE OF STANDARDIZED EXAM QUESTIONS 

This archive compiles standardized exam questions that relate to this topic.

 

Page Updated: 09.12.2016