Possible Incompetent Cervix-any advice?

pattybettywhite · October 2014

So, I had my 18 week appointment on Wednesday afternoon. My husband and I met with a high risk specialist after the ultrasound appointment because I was born with a double uterus. One of the biggest concerns the doctor has is that I may develop an incompetent cervix between 19-24 weeks therefore leading to a very pre-term labor. I'm having my cervix measured this coming Wednesday to ensure it's not thinning or shortening and right now I'm so scared and worried. I know there is nothing I can do until my appointment so worrying is useless but my husband and I have come this far with no issues I just am scared we may loose our girl before she's even here if my body doesn't cooperate. There are some things that can be done like watching for signs of pre-term labor, and using a hormone supplement if I am thinning but has anyone here had to go through this before? I am just looking for advice or maybe a reassuring word. I have had no issues with pregnancy yet, so I'm hoping I'm one of the 44% with my condition (double uterus) who goes through pregnancy just fine.

ngolimento · October 2014

I know it's hard not to worry (I would), but an incompetent cervix is normally not a life ending diagnosis. There are many things a doc can do, including a stitch to keep your cervix closed. Not ideal, but baby is safe.

You'll probably get lots of u/s visits to check on your cervix throughout the pregnancy. ((Hugs)) and FX it goes well.

colleen4019 · October 2014

I don't have a double uterus, but I did have to have my cervix measured yesterday. I had a LEEP last year so my CNM was slightly worried about preterm cervical shortening. It turns out I'm totally fine (4.8 cm).

I did do some reading before I went in anything under 2.5 cm is cause for monitoring and less than 1 is cause for concern. But it does seem like there are tons if potential treatments and management possibilities out there.

Typically I try not to google (I like to avoid horror stories) but what I found was overwhelmingly positive. I would look around and just be comforted by the fact that medical science has tons if solutions to this problem and we can happily benefit from them.

mandi195 · October 2014

I have a double uterus also (didelphic) and juat had mine measured a few weeks ago. Everything was fine. Also, I have an 8 year old son I carried to term with no issues.
worst case they can do a cerclage, which isn't really a huge deal. That said, often hormones work just fine and a cerclage can be avoided.
best of luck to you!

pattybettywhite · October 2014

I truly appreciate all of the supportive responses. I've only been on the Mayo Health website since Google can be very sketchy. Thank you all for the support and reassurance, you all are wonderful!

goofygoff · October 2014

I'm currently being monitored for a shortened cervix. It measured 2.3cm at my A/S. My OB had me "take it easy". I went a step further and kept my feet up for a week. I had an appointment with Prematurity Prevention on Wednesday, and my cervix was still measuring 2.3cm. They seemed happy that it was holding steady, even though it's still considered short. I'll be measured again in 2 weeks, and if nothing changes, I'll be sent back to my OB.

FX that your cervix is nice and long. But if it's not, there are still things they can do to prevent premature delivery.

csuperstar02 · October 2014

I have a unicornuate uterus and I'm pregnant with twins which adds another layer to my already 'delicate' self.

I had a preventative cerclage placed at 13 weeks. It was done by my perinatologist who has done plenty and went well. The procedure itself only took about 20 minutes and I really didn't have much cramping and no bleeding/spotting. I know it's a bit more of a process later on in pregnancy. Just wanted to share if you end up having to go that way.

Amber&Reva · October 2014

I am being monitored for an incompetent cervix and have been getting weekly u/s and cervical checks since 14w. Like PP have said you do get to have a lot more u/s although they are internal and will be followed more closely. I am also on 17P to help prevent preterm labor which isn't bad at all and I have yet to notice any side affects too. Most likely you will continue to have an uneventful pregnancy all the way to 40w and if your cervix is incompetent they are taking the steps to catch it early so that medically they can step in.

lsilva19 · October 2014

I am preg with my second and went in on Friday for my a/s. Ultrasound showed shortened cervix, immediately to the hospital I went to have a cerclage, bedrest for remainder of pregnancy. I was scared but I'm finally coming to terms with it. The dr is glad we caught it early enough so that something can be done. Won't know more until the coming weeks.
For you just take it one day at a time. If it comes to a cerclage then it's not the end of the world, just stay positive and keep the faith that everything will be ok. I never imagined that this would happen but it did and I'm dealing with it the best I can.

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