Occurring in 1 in every 100 pregnancies, an incompetent cervix can pose risks to an otherwise healthy pregnancy. In this article, we’ll define the term “incompetent cervix” and explain how it relates to birth injury law.
Key Takeaways
- An incompetent cervix happens when weak cervical tissue contributes to premature birth or loss of a healthy pregnancy
- Symptoms of an incompetent cervix include discomfort, discharge, bleeding, and more
- Risk factors of incompetent cervix include congenital conditions, cervical trauma, past miscarriage, and more
- Treatments for incompetent cervix include cervical cerclage, progesterone supplements, and increased monitoring
- Doctors have a duty to properly diagnose and treat incompetent cervix in order to prevent complications
What Is an Incompetent Cervix?
An incompetent cervix, also called an insufficient cervix, is when weak cervical tissue causes or contributes to premature birth or loss of an otherwise healthy pregnancy. The cervix, the lower part of the uterus opening into the vagina, is usually closed and firm. As pregnancy progresses closer to birth, the cervix gradually softens, decreases in length, and dilates. An incompetent cervix may open too soon, causing premature birth. Incompetent cervix occurs in about 1% of pregnancies.
Symptoms of Incompetent Cervix
Symptoms of an incompetent cervix usually begin between 14 and 20 weeks of pregnancy. Some signs and symptoms of an incompetent cervix include:
- A sensation of pelvic pressure
- A change in vaginal discharge
- Light vaginal bleeding
- Mild abdominal cramps
- A new backache
Risk Factors of Incompetent Cervix
Some things that may increase a person’s risk of having an incompetent cervix include:
- Congenital conditions - Uterine abnormalities and genetic disorders affecting the collagen such as Ehlers-Danlos syndrome may cause an incompetent cervix
- Exposure to diethylstilbestrol (DES) - Exposure to this synthetic form of estrogen before birth has been linked to cervical insufficiency
- Race - For unknown reasons, Black people have a higher risk of developing an incompetent cervix
- Cervical trauma - Some surgical procedures used to treat cervical abnormalities associated with an abnormal Pap smear, D&C, or cervical tears during previous labor can result in an incompetent cervix.
- Irregularly shaped cervix or uterus
- Past premature birth or miscarriage - Having previously experienced premature birth or miscarriage in the second trimester of pregnancy can increase the risk of incompetent cervix
- Expecting multiples
Treatments for Incompetent Cervix
Treatment and care options for incompetent cervix include:
- Cervical cerclage - This procedure involves sewing the cervix shut and typically happens around 12 to 14 weeks of pregnancy
- Progesterone supplements - Those with risk factors of incompetent cervix may be recommended to begin taking progesterone supplements in the second trimester
- Increased monitoring - Healthcare providers may choose to monitor the length of the cervix of a person with risk factors for an incompetent cervix using ultrasound
Incompetent Cervix and Birth Injury Law
Incompetent cervix is a serious condition that can lead to complications such as premature birth and pregnancy loss.
Cervical cerclage also carries risks of:
- Uterine rupture
- Infection
- Laceration
- Internal bleeding
It is the duty of medical professionals to take a proper medical history and perform the necessary tests in order to determine whether or not a pregnant person has an incompetent cervix. If so, they must respond accordingly so that the pregnancy can proceed as safely as possible. A failure to do so resulting in birth injury may be considered medical malpractice.
If your healthcare provider failed to properly diagnose or care for your incompetent cervix leading to complications for you or your baby, you may be eligible for compensation. It is recommended that you speak to an experienced birth injury lawyer in order to proceed with your case and receive the justice you deserve.
