What is a Cerclage?

A cervical cerclage is basically when a doctor puts a very strong stitch in the cervix during pregnancy to help keep it closed and doing its job—aka not opening too early before baby is ready.

Think of it like a support belt or safety tie for the cervix when it’s feeling a little too relaxed on the job 😅

🧵 WHY WOULD SOMEONE NEED A CERCLAGE?

🔴 Cervical weakness (insufficiency)

Your cervix is supposed to stay shut until it’s go-time. Sometimes it’s a little too chill and needs backup.

🔴 History matters

If there were previous second-trimester losses or early births, doctors may want extra protection this time.

🔴 Ultrasound red flags 🚨

If the cervix starts getting short or opening early (before 24 weeks), it’s a sign it may need reinforcement.

⚠️ WHAT ARE THE RISKS? (Real talk, but keep calm)

Most people do just fine, but here’s what doctors keep an eye on 👀

✅ Early contractions (the uterus trying to be dramatic)

✅ Cervix not opening normally later in labor

✅ Water breaking too early

✅ Infection

✅ Cervix injury if labor starts before the stitch comes out

✅ Anesthesia side effects like nausea or vomiting (aka the post-surgery yuckies 🤢)

A cerclage isn’t scary—it’s supportive.

It’s there to help baby stay put longer and give pregnancy the best chance to keep growing safely 🤍

Not every pregnancy needs one—but for the ones that do, it can be a game-changer.