INCOMPETENT

CERVIX

Definition: painless
dilatation of the cervix
without contractions
RISK FACTORS
CONGENITAL 
INCOMPETENCE

ACQUIRED 
INCOMPETENCE
 CONGENITAL
INCOMPETENCE

Women exposed to DES •

Women with a bicornuate uterus •

ACQUIRED CERVICAL
INCOMPETENCE

Inflammation •
Infection •
Subclinical uterine activity •
Cervical trauma •
Increased uterine volume •
IDENTIFICATION OF WOMEN
WITH INCOMPETENT CERVIX

Obstetrical history: repetitive •

second trimester losses,
previous preterm birth,
previous elective abortions or
cervical manipulation
 MANAGEMENT
CONSERVATIVE MANAGEMENT: bed •
rest; avoidance of heavy lifting; no coitus

WOMEN WITH PREVIOUS LOSSES: •

elective cervical cerclage (late first
trimester or early second trimester)
 CARE OF THE WOMAN
FOLLOWING AN ELECTIVE
CERCLAGE
Assessment of vaginal bleeding •
Assessment of uterine activity •
Assessment of vital signs •
Assessment of urine output •
Ultrasound •