XP: Shortening Cervix or PTL questions

PurpleIris30

Hi ladies,

If you have or had a shortening cervix or PTL issues, did you have any warning signs (even if in hindsight)?

My cervix had shortened at 18 weeks to about a 3, but my OB and MFM weren't concerned since total length was still longer than 2.5.  I have my next MFM appointment next week.  He has told me to pay attention to any stomach muscle tightening that lasts longer than 30 seconds with 4 or more episodes in an hour. 

Did you have any other warning signs?  I know I'm being paranoid, but I'm just worried about having further cervical changes and not realizing that anything is going on.  I'm also having some general discomfort and pains, but I think it's just the weight of the babies (as I'll feel the baby move and then the pain goes away).

Thanks!

RoseHQ12

I had ptl & shortened cervix from about 19 weeks on.  The only thing I noticed was the tightening in my abdomen & a heavy dragging feeling.  I was put on bedrest for the duration of the pregnancy after two positive fetal fibronectin tests but with bedrest I made it to almost 37 weeks.  Best of luck to you, its scary but listen to your body & rest as much as you can.

BzeetyD

P.I. - ack! Oh no. Don't want to hear this! I'm sorry that you're going through this. Crossing my fingers that everything stays put for a LONG while. No advice, just lots of good thoughts, long cervix thoughts and anti-anxiety thoughts coming your way.

JewelsW1980

I had a bleeding episode at 24 or 25 weeks that was the trigger for them to measure my CL. I was at a 2.5. They did the fetal fibro test on me and it was negative. The shortened CL did get me weekly appointments and ultrasounds to measure though and put back on progesterone supps which has helped increase me to 2.7 now.

amb2013

Low back pain. And cramps that feel like period cramps that tighten and then release. Good luck!!

Julie21613

OH P.I... sorry you are having anxiety over this.  Thankfully they told you what to watch for and are keeping on top of this.  Praying all goes well!

PurpleIris30

Thanks for your insights and kind thoughts everyone. Hopefully I won't have any more changes at my next appointment.

SweetyPy17

Hey sweetie!!! My cervix shortned then grew a little. It was weird. I was always above a 3 so my MFM and ob were not concerned. I started having Braxton hicks around 20weeks. It's so annoying, but they aren't doing anything and I'm currently 35w. I've also started being monitored with a contraction monitor every day. I avg 3-5 a night, but once again, cervix is nice and closed. I worried so much, but my advice now, looking back, is if your cervix isn't changing, then I wouldn't worry. Just take it easy. Good luck!

thecuddleeffect

**non pregnant lady butting in**
I noticed my mucus plug starting to come out, and you feel more pressure in your lady bits. Be vigilant about the doctors checking, but they need to check with an u/s not a manual check! (I'm sure you already know that!) Look into a TVCIC that is usually better than a TVC and will hold longer. Good luck darling, sorry its causing anxiety.