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Cervical cerclage (stitch)
Category: Women's Health & Childbirth · All women's health & childbirth
What it is
A cervical cerclage is a stitch placed around the neck of the womb (cervix) during pregnancy to keep it closed when it is weak or shortening too early (cervical insufficiency), reducing the risk of late miscarriage or very premature birth.
Why it is done
It is offered based on history (previous late miscarriage or preterm birth), ultrasound finding of a short cervix in the current pregnancy, or as an emergency (rescue) procedure if the cervix is opening early with membranes visible.
How to prepare
You will have ultrasound monitoring of cervical length and infection screening. The stitch is usually placed under spinal anaesthetic in theatre; planned stitches are typically placed in the early second trimester after the anomaly-scan period begins.
What happens during the procedure
Under spinal (occasionally general) anaesthetic, the surgeon places a tape or suture around the cervix via the vagina and tightens it to close the cervix. An abdominal route is used in special circumstances. It takes about 30 minutes.
Afterwards — recovery & results
Most people go home the same or next day and are given advice about activity, intercourse and warning signs (pain, bleeding, leaking fluid, contractions — seek urgent assessment). The stitch is removed around 36–37 weeks, or earlier if labour starts.
Risks & considerations
Risks include infection, bleeding, waters breaking early, stitch displacement, and the possibility that preterm birth happens despite the stitch. Your obstetric team will explain your individual circumstances and monitor closely.
Watch: Cervical cerclage (stitch) videos
Real procedure videos from the MedicalVideos.com library. Some clinical footage is graphic — that is the nature of a medical video library.
Related guides on MedicalVideos.com
Frequently asked questions
Does the stitch guarantee a full-term baby?
No, but in the right situations it significantly improves outcomes. It works together with monitoring and, sometimes, progesterone treatment.
How is the stitch removed?
Usually in clinic or on the labour ward without anaesthetic — it is cut and slips out, which most women find only briefly uncomfortable.
Related procedures — Women's Health & Childbirth
Browse the C section of the A–Z list or return to the Procedures & Tests hub.