POOJA KOTHARIMom of a 8 yr 5 m old boy7 months agoA. A short cervix during pregnancy can be a concern, especially if it measures less than the typical length, which is about 3-4 cm in a healthy pregnancy. A short cervix can increase the risk of preterm labor or preterm birth, as it may indicate that the cervix is beginning to open too early in the pregnancy.
Possible Causes:
Previous pregnancy or cervical surgery: If you've had a previous preterm birth or certain surgeries on the cervix, this could lead to a shorter cervix.
Multiple pregnancies: In some cases, multiple pregnancies can contribute to cervical shortening.
Infection or inflammation: In some cases, infections may cause the cervix to shorten.
Potential Risks:
Preterm labor: A short cervix can increase the likelihood of going into labor prematurely.
Premature rupture of membranes (PROM): The bag of waters may break early, leading to complications.
Monitoring and Management:
1. Cervical length monitoring: Doctors often monitor the cervical length with an ultrasound to check for changes, especially if there is a concern.
2. Progesterone supplementation: In some cases, progesterone supplements (oral or vaginal) may be prescribed to help reduce the risk of preterm labor.
3. Cervical cerclage: If the cervix is extremely short, a cerclage (a stitch around the cervix) may be recommended to help keep the cervix closed.
4. Lifestyle changes and rest: Doctors may recommend avoiding strenuous activity or bed rest in some cases.
It's important to work closely with your obstetrician or gynecologist, who will be able to guide you through monitoring and provide interventions if needed.
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