Cervical cerclage

Need to know

• What happens icon plus

  Cerclage will be carried out under local or regional anaesthetic (such as a spinal injection). The surgical procedure is usually done through the vagina. Firstly, a speculum (an instrument with paddles shaped like spoons) is inserted into the vagina. This will spread the vaginal walls. The surgery itself may then be done in the following ways: - The outside of the cervix can be stitched - Special tape can be tied in place around the cervix and stitched in place - A very small incision is made in the cervix. This allows a special tape to be tied through the incision and the cervix to be closed

• How to prepare icon plus

  Your consultant will explain how best to prepare for cerclage of the cervix, answering any questions you might have.

• Afterwards icon plus

  After surgery, your consultant will let you know when you can get back to your usual routine. Immediately following the procedure, the recovery process may include: - You will be cared for in a separate hospital room for four to six hours - You can go you home once you are able to walk and pass urine. This is unless a doctor feels it best you stay overnight in hospital - When you arrive home, you should rest for 48 hours. You may experience slight abdominable pain and/or vaginal bleeding - After one week you should be able to resume normal daily activities - Your consultant will advise you on when to attend a follow-up appointment