When is cerclage usually removed?
Most obstetricians electively remove a cerclage between 36 and 38 weeks’ gestation, assuming there are no symptoms suggesting preterm labor or membrane rupture.
How long after cerclage removal does labor usually begin?
The average interval between elective cerclage removal and spontaneous delivery is approximately 14 days.
In a study by Bisulli and colleagues, among women who reached 36–37 weeks, 11% delivered within 48 hours after elective cerclage removal.
References ▼1. Bisulli M. Interval to spontaneous delivery after elective removal of cerclage. Am J Obstet Gynecol. 2009;201(2):163.e1–4. PMID: 19560112
2. Guzman ER, Houlihan C, Vintzileos A, et al. Significance of transvaginal ultrasonographic evaluation of the cervix in women treated with emergency cerclage. Am J Obstet Gynecol. 1996;175:471–476. PMID: 8765271