Failed cervical cerclage: what to know

A cerclage is a stitch placed around the cervix to support it during pregnancy. It can be affected by cervical change, contractions, infection, bleeding or the waters breaking. The phrase failed cerclage does not explain the cause or predict an individual outcome. The team may examine the cervix, assess contractions and the membranes, and check for infection. Further care depends on gestational age, symptoms, membrane status and the wellbeing of you and the baby.

Contact your maternity unit immediately if you have regular tightening, pelvic pressure, back pain, fluid loss, bleeding or a change in vaginal discharge. Do not attempt to remove or adjust the stitch yourself. The hospital team may discuss whether it should be removed, whether labour or infection needs treatment, and what monitoring or neonatal support may be appropriate. If the pregnancy continues, ask how activity, follow-up and warning signs should be managed. Read more about Cervical Cerclage and Preterm Labour.

Go to urgent maternity care for suspected broken waters, heavy bleeding, painful regular contractions, severe abdominal pain, fever, chills, foul-smelling discharge, or reduced fetal movement when you have been told to monitor it. A stitch does not rule out preterm labour, and symptoms should be assessed even if they are mild or intermittent.

What finding suggests the stitch is no longer supporting the cervix? Does it need removal now? Could infection or contractions be involved? What monitoring and treatment are available for my pregnancy?