Pregnancy & Obstetrics

Cervical Incompetence & Cerclage in Bangalore

Cervical insufficiency — sometimes called incompetent cervix — refers to painless opening of the cervix in the second trimester, which can lead to preterm birth or pregnancy loss. Selected cases may benefit from cervical cerclage.

Consultation with Dr. Deepshika Jha at Grow and Glow Clinic, Kempapura, Hebbal and Cloudnine Hospitals, Sahakar Nagar.

Call or WhatsApp to speak with the clinic. Book an Appointment opens the online request form on this website.

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Understanding this area of care

A clear overview to help you know what to expect before your consultation.

Assessment combines obstetric history (such as prior second-trimester loss or preterm birth), examination, and transvaginal ultrasound measurement of cervical length. Cerclage is a stitch placed around the cervix to provide mechanical support; it is considered when history or shortening suggests high risk and when clinical criteria are met. Not every woman with a short cervix needs cerclage — progesterone or surveillance may be appropriate instead. Procedures and follow-up are undertaken at hospital facilities including Grow and Glow Clinic, Kempapura, Hebbal and Cloudnine Hospitals, Sahakar Nagar.

Symptoms & concerns

Common patterns women describe — though every experience is individual.

  • Often no symptoms until advanced cervical change
  • Pelvic pressure or mild cramping in mid-pregnancy
  • Change in vaginal discharge
  • History of painless dilation and second-trimester loss
  • Short cervix found on routine or targeted ultrasound

Possible causes & context

Helpful background — a consultation helps clarify what applies to you.

  • Prior surgical procedures on the cervix such as cone biopsy
  • History of second-trimester pregnancy loss or very preterm birth
  • Congenital uterine or cervical factors in some cases
  • Occasionally identified on ultrasound without clear prior history

When should you seek care?

If any of the following apply, it is worth arranging a consultation.

  • Prior second-trimester loss or very preterm delivery without clear cause
  • Short cervix reported on ultrasound in current pregnancy
  • Pelvic pressure or discharge in the second trimester
  • You are planning pregnancy after prior cervical insufficiency
  • Follow-up after cerclage placement

What a consultation may involve

Every visit is tailored — this is a general guide to what may be discussed.

  1. Detailed obstetric and surgical history

  2. Transvaginal cervical length assessment when indicated

  3. Discussion of cerclage versus progesterone or surveillance

  4. Pre-procedure counselling if cerclage is planned

  5. Post-procedure activity guidance and infection warning signs

  6. Planning for stitch removal near term or if labour begins

Treatment & management overview

Options depend on your history, examination findings, and preferences.

History-indicated cerclage may be placed in early pregnancy when criteria are met. Ultrasound-indicated cerclage is considered when cervical length shortens significantly. Emergency cerclage is rarely performed and only in selected circumstances. Activity modification, progesterone, and serial scans may accompany cerclage or be used alone when cerclage is not advised.

Frequently asked questions

Clear answers to common questions — for personal advice, please book a consultation.

Does cerclage guarantee I will carry to term?

Cerclage reduces but does not eliminate preterm birth risk in selected patients. Outcomes depend on cervical length, gestational age at placement, and other pregnancy factors.

When is the cerclage stitch removed?

Removal is usually planned around 36–37 weeks if no complications occur, or earlier if labour starts or infection is suspected. Timing is individualised.

Can I have a normal delivery after cerclage?

The stitch is removed before labour in most cases, allowing vaginal delivery when otherwise appropriate. Caesarean delivery may be advised for other obstetric reasons unrelated to cerclage alone.

Consultation is available from nearby neighbourhoods across North Bangalore — without separate clinic addresses in every area.

Appointments

Book a consultation for cervical incompetence / cerclage

Request an appointment with Dr. Deepshika Jha for cervical incompetence / cerclage consultation in Bangalore — online, by phone, or WhatsApp.

Call or WhatsApp to speak with the clinic. Book an Appointment opens the online request form on this website.

Medical disclaimer

Information on this page is for general education and does not replace an in-person consultation with a qualified medical professional. It is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any condition. Symptoms and treatment options vary between individuals.