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The cervix is the narrow, lower end of the uterus that opens into the vagina. During pregnancy, the cervix holds the baby in the uterus. The cervix is usually about 35 millimeters or 1 1/2 inches long , firm, and closed The cervix is considered to be short when it measures less than 25 millimeters (1 inch)  long before 24 weeks of pregnancy. A short cervix is more  likely to open and  lead to premature birth  before 37 weeks.

The cervix may be  shortened  because of  progesterone deficiency, inflammation , damage to the cervix from a previous pregnancy,  some inherited  disorders, or previous surgery such as a cone biopsy or loop electrosurgical excision procedure (LEEP).

If the length of your cervix is equal to or less than 25 millimeters , your health care provider may discuss treatment using progesterone or cerclage depending on your circumstances.

Treatments to Prevent Preterm Birth in Persons with A Short Cervix

  • Natural progesterone suppositories or capsules are placed in the vagina every night until 36 to 37 weeks to prevent the cervix from shortening further.

  • Cerclage is  a procedure used to temporarily stitch the cervix closed, most often  by way of the vagina under anesthesia. The cerclage is usually  removed around  36 to 37 weeks of pregnancy.
    		•    Normal cervix
    Normal Cervix

       Short cervix
    Short Cervix

     Cerclages 
     Cervical Cerclage

    By Mark Curran, MD FACOG Updated  12/07/2023 > 

    REFERENCES


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