About Cervical Cerclage
Key Highlights
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Significantly reduces the risk of preterm birth in women with cervical insufficiency.Can be performed as a planned (elective) or emergency procedure depending on the clinical situation.Minimally invasive surgical approach, often using a vaginal route.Helps carry pregnancy closer to full term, improving neonatal outcomes.The sutures are typically removed around 36-37 weeks of gestation to allow for normal labor.
Who is this surgery for?
- History of one or more second-trimester pregnancy losses due to painless cervical dilation.
- Previous preterm birth (before 34 weeks) suspected to be due to cervical factors.
- Short cervix (less than 25mm) detected on ultrasound in the current pregnancy, especially with a history of preterm birth.
- Physical findings of cervical dilation and/or membrane prolapse in the second trimester (emergency cerclage).
- Congenital uterine abnormalities that may affect cervical strength.
- Previous surgical procedures on the cervix (e.g., cone biopsy, LEEP).
How to prepare
- A thorough medical history and physical examination, including a pelvic exam.
- Ultrasound examination to confirm gestational age, fetal viability, and assess cervical length.
- Pre-operative blood tests and possibly a urine test.
- Discussion of anesthesia options (spinal, epidural, or general) with the anesthesiologist.
- Fasting for 6-8 hours before the procedure if general anesthesia is planned.
- Informed consent process detailing the procedure, benefits, and potential risks.
Risks & possible complications
- Infection of the amniotic sac (chorioamnionitis).
- Rupture of membranes (water breaking) prematurely.
- Bleeding or spotting.
- Cervical laceration or tear during placement or removal of the stitch.
- Preterm labor triggered by the procedure.
- Allergic reaction to anesthesia or suture material.
- Failure of the procedure, leading to preterm birth despite the cerclage.
- Rarely, the suture can erode into the cervical tissue.
Recovery & hospital stay
- Hospital stay is usually short, often just 1-2 days for monitoring.
- Vaginal spotting or mild cramping is common for a few days.
- Patients are advised to avoid strenuous activity, heavy lifting, and sexual intercourse for a period recommended by the doctor (often 1-2 weeks).
- Regular prenatal visits will continue, with close monitoring for signs of infection, labor, or membrane rupture.
- Immediate medical attention is needed for symptoms like fever, chills, heavy bleeding, severe abdominal pain, or fluid leakage.
- The cerclage suture is typically removed in an outpatient setting around 36-37 weeks of pregnancy to allow for normal labor.
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Typical hospital stay: 1-2 days
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Expected recovery time: 1-2 weeks
Frequently Asked Questions
If you are considering cervical cerclage in India, these questions and answers can help you make a confident, informed decision.
Popular choices for cervical cerclage in India include Kamineni Hospital, King Koti, Manipal Hospital Old Airport Road, Manipal Hospital Mukundapur, SIMS Hospital Vadapalani, Manipal Hospital Dwarka, known for experienced specialists and advanced surgical infrastructure.
Look at the doctor’s years of experience, hospital association, patient reviews, and how often they perform cervical cerclage. MediFyr helps you compare obstetrics and gynaecologists and book consultations online.
The overall cost depends on hospital category, surgeon’s experience, room type, implant or device used (if any), length of stay, tests, and post-operative care. Our team can help you get cost estimates from multiple hospitals before you decide.
Procedure cost in other countries
Here is an overview of how the estimated cost, hospital stay, and recovery time for cervical cerclage compare across other countries where we have data.
Top hospitals for Cervical Cerclage in India
These partner hospitals in India have dedicated obstetrics and gynaecology teams and experience managing patients undergoing cervical cerclage.
Rahul Kumar, 32, is a software...
Rahul Kumar, 32, is a software engineer from Bangalore. He and his wife, Priya, have been trying to start a family for four years. Their journey has been marked by two devastating miscarriages, both occurring around 18-20 weeks of pregnancy. Priya is now 16 weeks pregnant with their third attempt. During a routine scan, her cervix was found to be painlessly shortening and beginning to dilate, a condition known as cervical insufficiency. Their obstetrician, Dr. Mehta, explained that without intervention, they risked another late miscarriage. He recommended an urgent cervical cerclage, a stitch to close the cervix and provide mechanical support. The procedure, performed under spinal anesthesia, was quick. Priya stayed overnight for monitoring. The recovery was straightforward with some cramping and light spotting. Emotionally, Rahul was a pillar of stoic support for Priya, but internally, he was terrified of another loss and felt the immense pressure of their long journey. After the procedure, seeing the stitch on the ultrasound and hearing the strong fetal heartbeat gave him his first real sense of cautious hope in years. He felt the cerclage was a tangible shield, allowing him to finally breathe and believe this pregnancy could be different.
Obstetrics and Gynaecologists for Cervical Cerclage
Explore experienced obstetrics and gynaecologists who regularly perform cervical cerclage and provide pre- and post-operative care in India.
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Manipal Hospital Old Airport Road, Bangalore
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Manipal Hospital Old Airport Road, Bangalore