Definition
What does the uterus look like in its normal state? During most of the menstrual cycle it is quite hard and dense. Has a light pink tint. Its surface is smooth on the outside. However, normally this condition may change in the third stage of the menstrual cycle. After ovulation, the organ becomes more loose, its throat opens slightly - this happens in order to create optimal conditions for conception and attachment of the embryo. If conception does not occur, then menstruation begins and the organ gradually returns to its normal state.
What does a loose cervix mean? This is a condition in which the density and elasticity of the tissues of this organ is slightly (or significantly) reduced. The tone of the cervix decreases, the pharynx may even open slightly. This is normal in early pregnancy and also just before giving birth. However, if this condition occurs during mid-gestation, it can lead to premature birth and miscarriage. Therefore, upon hearing such a diagnosis, many expectant mothers begin to worry. But is this justified, are such changes always associated with pathology?
https://youtu.be/qnnhkGK1uz4
DIAGNOSIS OF CERVICAL DISEASES
The main methods for examining the condition and diagnosing the pathology of the exo- and endocervix in gynecology are:
- Examination of the cervix in the speculum,
- Colposcopy (extended and video),
- Oncocytology of the cervix,
- Cervical biopsy (knife or radio wave),
- HPV tests (Digen test);
- Blood tumor markers.
See what the cervix looks like: “Photo of colposcopy results.”
CERVICAL SPECIALISTS
Are you interested in examining your condition and identifying cervical pathology? In Moscow, you can undergo a complete diagnosis at our medical center. At your service are experienced specialists, a full list of necessary instrumental studies and tests for diagnosing cervical diseases and identifying possible precancerous pathologies.
Today the reception is held by:
Bezyuk Laura Valentinovna Obstetrician-gynecologist, gynecologist endocrinologist, specialist in gynecology of children and adolescents. Ultrasound. Precancerous diseases of the cervix | Vakhrusheva Diana Andreevna Obstetrician-gynecologist, endocrinologist, ultrasound diagnostics. Aesthetic gynecology. Diagnosis and modern treatment of cervical and background pathologies |
MAKE AN APPOINTMENT WITH A GYNECOLOGIST VIA THE INTERNET
Why is this happening?
What are the main reasons for this phenomenon? It can be caused by many features and factors. Among them are:
- Frequent mechanical damage, for example, during abortions, operations, diagnostic studies, accompanied by the introduction of instruments into the uterus through the cervical canal;
- Weakening of general organic and/or local tissue (which often happens after operations or injuries) immunity;
- A significant drop in the tone of the uterus and small pelvis as a whole;
- Hormonal imbalances, both from the reproductive system and as a result of certain endocrine diseases;
- Recent or fairly long past difficult childbirth;
- Some types of congenital changes (hypoplasia, infantilism of the uterus, other deviations and pathologies of this type, a small number of elastic compounds in tissues, hereditary predisposition to low tone of organs in general, and the pelvis in particular).
It is important to understand that the phenomenon is not only quite serious in itself (especially during pregnancy), but is also caused by serious pathological processes. Therefore, even if no negative symptoms appear, it should still be treated in a timely manner.
During pregnancy
During this period, changes occur under the influence of hormones. The uterus softens in the first days of pregnancy so that the embryo can better attach and be provided with adequate nutrition. But gradually, even during the first month, the organ returns to its more or less normal state. Now it will undergo some changes during gestation, but the next time a loose uterus will appear only a few days before birth.
At the same time, the cervical canal will slightly expand, the tone of the cervix will drop, and it will shorten. All this happens as part of the body’s preparation for childbirth and is designed to make the birth process easier for the expectant mother. That is, such changes are considered normal and do not require treatment.
However, if this phenomenon occurs at 20-30 weeks of gestation, then it is necessary to begin treatment, since this condition can lead to premature birth. At the same time, the most critical period in this regard is considered to be 24 weeks. If loosening occurs this week, it is often impossible to avoid premature birth.
Without pregnancy
If during pregnancy, loosening is considered normal at some stages, and pathological at others, then in the case of absence of pregnancy, this phenomenon is always a sign of pathology. Most often in such cases, the diagnosis of ICI - isthmic-cervical insufficiency - occurs. It can be functional (developing as a result of an excess of the male sex hormone, or a lack of progesterone), or organic (forming as a result of injuries from surgical interventions and procedures or as a result of difficult childbirth).
In fact, the first type causes a decrease in muscle tone, organ elasticity and a slight change in tissue composition (not always). The second type is dangerous because scars and tears form on the neck. In this case, the elastic fibers of the tissue are replaced by connective, fibrous ones, which ultimately also negatively affects the tone of the organ.
Cyclical changes
The position and hardness of the cervix changes depending on the hormonal background of the body. You can begin monitoring her condition immediately after the end of menstruation.
- In the first days after the end of the discharge, the endometrium begins to grow in the uterus. During this period, her cervix becomes hard, there is a plug of thick mucus inside, there is no cervical discharge, so it is dry to the touch. It is located low, and the cervical canal running inside is tightly closed. This condition is observed on days 5-8 of the cycle.
- As ovulation approaches, hormonal levels change. The neck rises high, gradually becoming soft from hard. The secretion begins. During this period, which lasts from days 9 to 12 of the menstrual cycle, a woman notices the appearance of a sticky, sticky discharge.
- During the ovulatory period, the cervix is located as high as possible. The mucus plug in it begins to liquefy and come out. The consistency of the discharge is similar to egg white. The neck becomes not hard to the touch, but slippery, soft, and moisturized. During an examination, a gynecologist can determine that the pharynx is open (doctors call this condition a pupil symptom). During this period, the egg is ready to be released from the ovary, and a large amount of mucous secretions and an open, high cervix allow sperm to easily penetrate the uterus. The probability of conception at the specified time is maximum.
- After the release of the egg, the hormonal background changes again. As a result, the cervical canal closes and the discharge stops. The closed cervix descends, it becomes hard, elastic and dry.
- The day before menstrual flow begins, the cervical canal begins to open. The neck becomes soft again from hard. This is necessary so that the endometrium can freely exit the uterus.
Knowing how the condition of the cervical part of the uterus changes throughout the menstrual cycle, you can determine the days of maximum fertility. This allows you to plan a pregnancy or, conversely, choose the safest days for intimacy.
The position of the cervix changes depending on hormonal levels. If a woman does not have a standard cycle, which lasts 28 days, then you should not rely on the above-mentioned duration of each phase. For example, if ovulation occurs later than the 14th day, then this organ begins to rise high and soften not on the 9th day of the cycle, but later. The timing of favorable days for conception is shifting.
In the absence of problems with reproductive health, cyclical changes occur in the body of every woman. But if during ovulation the egg is fertilized, the position of the cervix will change.
Symptoms
Does this phenomenon have any negative symptoms and can you suspect it in yourself? It can be completely asymptomatic or give some nonspecific manifestations. Among them:
- Aching pain, heaviness or feeling of fullness in the lower abdomen;
- In rare cases, discomfort during sexual intercourse;
- Sharp pain or tingling sensations in the vagina that are short-term;
- Normal but excessive cervical mucus discharge;
- Blood in vaginal discharge;
- Bleeding outside of menstruation.
Treatments
Treatment depends on the type of pathology and its causes:
- If the condition develops as a result of hormonal imbalance, it is treated with progesterone drugs (Duphaston) for two weeks or more. Also in this case, a Mayer ring can be installed - a pessary, which will now bear the entire load;
- If the condition is caused by injuries, then non-steroidal painkillers and anti-inflammatory drugs (Diclofenac), broad-spectrum antibiotics (Amoxiclav) and drugs that restore uterine tone are prescribed. Antibacterial drugs are used for up to two weeks, drugs for uterine tone - up to two months.
If the lesion is traumatic, surgical intervention is performed only in the presence of significant defects and scars. During pregnancy and when this condition has hormonal causes, the cervix can be sutured to prevent miscarriage. This manipulation is carried out at early or later stages.
Conclusion
From everything written above, we can conclude that a loose uterus is considered normal only in three cases - on the eve of menstruation, in the earliest stages of pregnancy and immediately before childbirth. In all other cases, excessive loosening of the organ, and especially its neck, is a pathology that should be treated in a timely manner. If the patient has been given such a diagnosis, then she must strictly follow the doctor’s instructions in order to preserve reproductive function, and most importantly, the general health of the body.
You should visit a gynecologist at least once or twice a year, unless otherwise recommended by your doctor. Taking care of your health will help a woman prevent many diseases related to the reproductive sphere.
One of the most serious disorders of sexual function is isthmic-cervical insufficiency (loose cervix), in which a woman cannot become pregnant. If conception does occur, it is difficult to bear a child with such a diagnosis.
Stitching the neck
Another way to preserve the desired pregnancy with isthmic-cervical insufficiency (as this pathology is correctly called) is a surgical operation to tighten the cervix with special sutures. The manipulation is carried out exclusively under anesthesia in a hospital setting. The favorable time for suturing when ICI occurs is 14-20 weeks. Before the operation, a comprehensive examination of the pregnant woman and preparation of the genital tract and uterus are required. Of course, like any surgical intervention, suturing the cervix can lead to complications or may not bring the desired result, but most often, with regular monitoring and control by a gynecologist, the prognosis for the birth of a full-term baby is quite favorable.
Collapse
Various diseases associated with the organs of the female reproductive system are not uncommon. Since the uterus and other organs of this system are hormone-dependent, their tissues can undergo significant changes provided that the hormonal status of the body changes. One of the phenomena of this kind will be discussed in this article. Why does the cervix, and then the organ itself, become loose, is this a pathology, and should this condition be treated?
What is a loose neck?
In its normal state, the uterus has a dense structure. When a woman produces an egg, the cervix dilates to allow sperm to fertilize it. It is at this time that the tissue of the cervix becomes looser. This phenomenon is considered normal and helps to conceive. If this does not happen, the organ returns to its normal state.
The uterine os opens slightly in the first weeks of gestation and a few days before contractions. However, there are pathological conditions of the cervical tissue, in which they become soft, regardless of ovulation and pregnancy. This violation poses a danger during the remaining stages of pregnancy, because it can lead to miscarriage. The fact is that the cervix must be tight enough to hold the fetus in the womb.
loose uterus
Found (44 posts)
gynecologist
November 24, 2009 / Nastya / Saratov
Back was the last sexual intercourse, then I drank Escapelle. My stomach hurt, my chest hurt. I went to the doctor - she said that the uterus
was loose
, looked like a pregnant woman, and there was a mass on the right side, she sent me for an intravaginal ultrasound - they said that she was pregnant...
During pregnancy, the cervix should never be softened. It becomes soft and loose only towards the end of pregnancy. This indicates the body is preparing for childbirth. At earlier stages, the soft neck, gradually opening, smoothes out and loses its ability to hold the fetus. In this case, the amniotic sac partially passes into the cervix, which can lead to infection of its membranes, leakage of water and ultimately to a late miscarriage. That is why regular monitoring of the condition of this organ is very important. Softening of the cervix is a serious reason for hospitalization in a hospital, where the pregnant woman will be offered various treatment options.
Causes of pathology
The main causes of isthmic-cervical insufficiency:
- frequent manipulation of medical devices in the cervical area (abortions, operations, gynecological examinations);
- decreased general or local immunity;
- decreased tone of the reproductive organ;
- metabolic disorders;
- childbirth with complications;
- abnormalities of the structure and function of the uterus.
In a pregnant woman
In the first weeks of pregnancy, softening of the cervix does not pose a danger to the fetus. On the contrary, this allows it to attach to the endometrium in the uterine cavity and receive nutrients. A month after fertilization, the pharynx will close and thicken. Otherwise, they talk about the development of pregnancy pathology.
Subsequently, the cervix will soften only before childbirth, a few days before the expected event. Shortening and loosening will prepare the uterus to perform its function.
In a non-pregnant woman
The only time when cervical softening is normal is ovulation. At other times it is a sign of pathology. As a rule, in such cases, the gynecologist diagnoses isthmic-cervical insufficiency or endocervicitis (inflammation of the cervical canal). The cause may be an excess of male hormones in a woman or damage to this area of the uterus.
If the disorder is associated with a hormonal imbalance, the tissues become less elastic and tone decreases. When the cervix is damaged, scarring occurs and organ cells are replaced with connective fibers.
ICI is the cause of cervical laxity, what are the prognosis?
If the pathology is detected in time and all the doctor’s recommendations are followed, the prognosis is favorable: a woman can become pregnant, carry to term and give birth to a healthy baby. But treatment alone is not enough. The expectant mother should:
- Maintain bed rest.
- Avoid strenuous physical activity.
- Refuse intimacy.
- Be in a good mood.
- Visit your doctor regularly.
For women who have been diagnosed with cervical pathology before their first pregnancy or after multiple miscarriages, it is recommended:
In general, cervical looseness is considered normal if it is observed before menstruation, in early pregnancy and immediately before childbirth. In other cases, such a symptom may be a sign of isthmic-cervical insufficiency or other pathology. Only a doctor can determine the cause of dysfunction of the reproductive organ.
Cervicitis is an inflammation of the cervix (the tissue that connects the vagina to the uterine cavity). This organ plays a very important role: it protects the upper part of the genital tract from infections, allows sperm to be delivered to the uterus, and during childbirth, for the baby to come out of the womb.
When the inflammatory process develops, the cervix becomes loose. It prevents sperm from entering the uterus, which leads to infertility. If cervicitis occurs during pregnancy, it threatens premature birth or miscarriage. In addition, the inflammation can spread higher, leading to serious health problems (pelvic, urinary tract or peritoneal inflammation) and pose a direct threat to life.
Treatment of cervicitis should be carried out competently and carefully - especially during pregnancy. In order not to harm the unborn child, and also not to poison your own body with pharmaceutical drugs, seek help from traditional medicine. Anti-inflammatory herbs will quickly eliminate the problem and restore women's health.
There are acute and chronic inflammation. The acute variety is usually caused by sexually transmitted diseases such as:
- chlamydia;
- trichomoniasis;
- genital warts (HPV);
- gonorrhea;
- genital herpes.
Both chronic and acute cervicitis can be caused by other pathogenic microorganisms, such as fungi, staphylococci, streptococci, E. coli or ureaplasma. Sometimes the culprit is a disruption in the natural balance of vaginal flora, when there are more “bad” bacteria than “good” ones.
The cause of inflammation of the cervix can also be an allergic reaction to latex or chemical contraceptives (spermicidal gels, creams, pessaries). In some cases, the source of infection is the intrauterine device.
Chronic inflammation that lasts several months after childbirth is very common. In this case, the disease may cause mechanical damage to the cervix that occurred during the passage of the fetus.
In most cases, cervicitis of the cervix is asymptomatic. However, some women complain of:
- purulent or mucopurulent vaginal discharge;
- spotting from the vagina after sexual intercourse or between menstruation;
- painful sexual intercourse;
- frequent urination, burning and pain during urination;
- itching of the vagina and external genitalia;
- abdominal pain and fever (in rare cases).
Having noticed all these symptoms, you should immediately get tested and clarify the diagnosis. Please be careful about your women's health! [content h2 h3]
A loose cervix with cervicitis is a direct path to infections, complications and infertility or premature birth. Therefore, you must start treatment immediately. Traditional medicine in this matter has the following position: a woman should take herbs that eliminate inflammation, and additionally use local remedies (suppositories, tampons) to restore the normal structure of tissues and remove the infection. Some products are even suitable for use during pregnancy.
Aloe kills all infections and relieves inflammation (even chronic), so you should definitely include it in your therapeutic program. The easiest way is to insert a small piece of fresh leaf into the vagina at night (after cutting off the thorns). The next morning, the aloe will fall out on its own during a bowel movement. Such procedures must be repeated every night until the symptoms of the disease disappear. The technique can be used by women during pregnancy.
You can also mix aloe juice with honey (in any proportion), moisten a cotton-gauze swab with this mixture and insert it into the vagina overnight. For general strengthening of the body, mix 100 ml of aloe juice, 200 ml of honey and 50 ml of freshly squeezed lemon juice. Take a tablespoon of this elixir every morning before breakfast.
If you have a loose cervix due to chronic inflammation, try treating the problem with sea buckthorn oil. It has a wound healing and anti-inflammatory effect.
Soak a long piece of bandage with oil, leaving the tip free (about 6 cm) and insert it into the vagina overnight. This should be repeated for 10 nights in a row, then take a break for 1-2 weeks and repeat the course again (if the symptoms have not completely disappeared). This treatment is not contraindicated during pregnancy.
For greater effect, you can add honey, aloe juice or liquid vitamin E to sea buckthorn oil. The proportions do not matter here.
Sage has anti-inflammatory properties, so it is recommended for patients with cervical inflammation (as part of complex herbal medicine). However, courses can be carried out no more than three times a year, and sage is strictly prohibited for women during pregnancy.
So, brew a tablespoon of the dry plant in a glass of boiling water, wait 15 minutes, strain, add a teaspoon of honey and drink in one gulp. Take 2-3 glasses of this drink per day, preferably on an empty stomach. Treatment lasts 3 weeks, after which the course is stopped. Additionally, you can douche with sage infusion in the evenings to remove the infection locally.
Young raspberry shoots eliminate acute inflammation of the cervix and also normalize the balance of microflora (it is often disturbed with cervicitis). It is best to make a glycerin tincture from this plant: infuse 1 part of cut dry shoots in 10 parts of glycerin, strain after 10 days. Take a teaspoon three times a day before meals, with a snack of honey. Continue treatment until the unpleasant symptoms go away.
Pregnant women can take a water infusion of raspberry shoots: to do this, brew a tablespoon of the plant in two glasses of boiling water, and drink in small portions throughout the day. In the last weeks of pregnancy, it is better to avoid raspberries, as they slightly increase the tone of the uterus and can provoke premature birth.
Herbal remedies will help treat the problem. Each component of these mixtures acts on the cause of cervicitis; some herbs also additionally strengthen the entire body, cleanse the blood, and normalize the balance of hormones. Here's a good recipe:
- Yarrow flowers - 30 g;
- Roots of young juniper - 30 g;
- Young twigs and alder cones - 30 g;
- Horehound grass - 30 g.
Prepare the decoction: pour 4 tablespoons of the mixture into a saucepan, add a liter of water, cover, bring to a boil and cook for several minutes. Then wait until the broth cools down a little. Take half the portion orally (100 ml 4 times a day), use the rest for evening douching. The disease must be treated with this method until the symptoms go away. This recipe is not suitable for expectant mothers.
- Adonis herb - 30 g;
- Chamomile flowers - 30 g;
- Rowan bark - 30 g;
- Oak bark - 15 g;
- Common rapeseed herb - 15 g.
Prepare the decoction: mix the ingredients, throw 3 tablespoons of the mixture into a saucepan in which a liter of water is boiling, cover, reduce the heat and cook for 10 minutes. Let the broth cool down at room temperature, then strain it and divide it into 2 parts. We drink half instead of tea, leaving the other half for evening douching. Treatment should be continued until the unpleasant symptoms go away. During pregnancy, using this mixture is strictly prohibited.
The cervix and vagina in gynecology are objects of close study and research.
At the same time, specialists use informative and simple techniques that allow them to obtain maximum information about the object of observation, be it the cervix or vagina.
Ultrasound examinations today are carried out using the most modern equipment. This has a positive effect on the quality of the results, and cervical ultrasound is no exception. Obtaining accurate data allows you to indicate the most accurate diagnosis during diagnostics. The cervix will not be felt by ultrasound, and after the procedure the specialist will receive all the information he needs without spending much effort. In such a field of medicine as gynecology, ultrasound of the female cervix is urgently needed. Ultrasound allows for constant monitoring of the treatment process.
As for the cytological examination of the cervix, it can be used to evaluate one or another characteristic for the morphological cellular structures in the smear, which is also called a cytological preparation. Cytological examination of the cervix is carried out in order to establish the diagnosis of non-neoplastic lesions, malignant or benign tumors.
It should be noted that a cytological examination of the female cervix is based on the study of the structure of cells, as well as the cellular composition of fluids, organs or tissues in the human body, both in normal conditions and in pathologies.
Cervical cytology is very different from histology. The difference is expressed in the fact that the object of study of cytology is the cells of the cervix, while histology examines sections of tissue. Please note that cervical cytology makes a conclusion based on changes in the cytoplasm, nucleus, their ratio, as well as the formation of cellular complexes and structures.
Changes in a woman's cervix depending on the circumstances
Many girls are interested in what the cervix feels like to the touch. It is known that the cervix has internal and external parts. Since it is not possible to feel the inside, it is worth focusing on the outer surface of the woman’s cervix. If you visit a thematic forum, you will find out that the outside of the cervix is smooth.
Women are interested in the structure of the cervix and vagina; this cannot but rejoice, because this way they begin to be more careful about their own body and visit the doctor more often for preventive examinations. Now that you've learned about the feel of the cervix, you're probably wondering what a woman's cervix feels like on the inside. Experts say that the inner surface of the cervix is velvety and loose.
We will answer some questions about the cervix:
- What characterizes the cervix in nulliparous women?
Among the distinctive features of the cervix in nulliparous women, one can note its relative hardness. Otherwise, the cervix of a woman’s uterus in nulliparous women is not much different from the cervix of a woman who has managed to become a mother and fully recover after childbirth. - What signs does the cervix show before menstruation?
What is normal for the cervix? Every practicing gynecologist will tell you that the female cervix is slightly softened before menstruation. If a woman who has given birth has a slightly open cervix, this is normal. It is worth noting the special position of the cervix before menstruation. A low-lying cervix is normal before menstruation. - How is the pregnant cervix different?
It is important to understand that a pregnant woman’s cervix can periodically change significantly. First of all, the color of the pregnant cervix changes - from usual pink to bluish. Also, the cervix is slightly higher than in the case of menstruation. - Why are sutures made on the cervix during pregnancy?
During pregnancy, the cervix holds the fetus inside the mother's body. Sometimes it happens that there is a risk of dilation of the cervix before the right moment. Under such circumstances, in order to eliminate isthmic-cervical insufficiency, in gynecology it is customary to apply sutures to the cervix. The naturally placed suture on the woman's cervix will be removed during childbirth. - When can the cervix be soft?
During pregnancy itself, the cervix should not be soft, since this is premature, and therefore a deviation from the norm. But by the end of pregnancy, the cervix should soften. In other words, when the cervix becomes soft, this indicates that the expectant mother’s body is preparing for childbirth. - What should the cervix be like before giving birth?
Immediately before giving birth, a woman's cervix should not open. The cervix of the female uterus should be slightly softened before childbirth, as mentioned above. It is worth checking the cervix before giving birth; the doctor must make sure that the length of the cervix is appropriate, that the body has tolerated the pregnancy normally and that you are completely ready for childbirth. - How should the cervix change during childbirth?
As pregnancy comes to an end, the cervix softens and gradually dilates, and cervical ripening occurs. Usually, the cervix of a woman’s uterus during childbirth opens by 1-2 cm at the initial stage. In order for the baby to be born, the uterus opens completely, by 10 cm. Changes in the cervix during childbirth occur in stages, each stage is described literally minute by minute in specialized literature. - How does cervicitis of the cervix manifest?
This is the name given to the process of inflammation of the vaginal segment of the cervix. Cervicitis of the female cervix is characterized by symptoms such as: mucous, cloudy discharge, dull and aching pain in the lower abdomen, pain during sexual intercourse or urination. - What is radio wave treatment of the cervix?
Cervical erosion is treated with radio waves very effectively and painlessly. Special devices capable of treating the cervix with radio waves also successfully carry out accurate diagnostics. Radio wave therapy has a wide range of applications.
Symptoms of pathology
Typically, disorders associated with the cervix occur without pronounced symptoms, and a doctor can identify them during an examination. This is especially true for women who do not have children. Normally, the cervix is dense, light pink, and the pharynx is closed so much that it does not allow a finger to pass through.
The following signs should alert a woman:
- aching pain in the lower abdomen;
- discomfort during intimacy;
- sharp or stabbing pain inside the vagina;
- copious mucous discharge from the genitals;
- a small amount of blood in the leucorrhoea;
- bleeding outside of menstruation.
Diagnosis and treatment
Diagnosing this disorder during pregnancy is difficult. This often happens after the loss of a child has occurred. The fact is that any intervention in the cervical area, even for the purpose of research, poses a threat to the expectant mother and her baby. This is why it is so important to undergo examination by a gynecologist at the stage of pregnancy planning.
Suspicion of pathology may arise after an ultrasound, which diagnoses a short cervix. A shortening of up to 2 cm is considered pathological, which means there is a direct threat of miscarriage or premature birth.
The doctor will be able to identify the disorder in non-pregnant women during a routine visit. To do this, a colposcopy or examination with mirrors is performed. A gynecological smear will be taken for analysis.
After making a diagnosis, the doctor will prescribe treatment, it will depend on the woman’s condition and the cause of the pathology:
- in case of hormonal imbalance, drugs containing progesterone (Duphaston, Utrozhestan) are prescribed;
- installation of a special ring to which the load from the growing fetus will be directed;
- placing sutures on the cervix to prevent its divergence;
- after birth injuries, anesthetics and anti-inflammatory drugs (Diclofenac) are used;
- antibiotics in the presence of inflammation (Amoxiclav).
A pregnant woman is supposed to stay in bed and not be nervous. If she had stitches, the doctor will remove them at 37-28 weeks of gestation. Suturing the cervix occurs painlessly, under anesthesia, and allows you to safely achieve pregnancy.
If the tissue of the cervical canal is loose, a pregnant woman should not be sexually active or lift heavy objects. A ban is imposed on prolonged sitting; for rest it is better to take a different position, because the load on the cervix increases. You should give up bad habits and follow a diet.
How is isthmic-cervical insufficiency treated?
Pathology can be detected before pregnancy if there are defects or rough scars on the cervix. In other cases, the disease is diagnosed during a gynecological examination after the first miscarriage.
A healthy pregnant woman has a long and firm cervix. It is tilted back, and its outer opening is tightly closed. With ICI, this part of the reproductive organ softens (becomes loose), the internal and external pharynx opens. If, upon examination, the membranes of the amniotic sac are visible in the speculum, and a shortening of the cervix of up to 2 cm is noticed, the diagnosis is confirmed.
Post-traumatic ICI in non-pregnant patients is treated surgically: cervical plastic surgery is performed. Treatment of pathology during pregnancy depends on its type and the presence of complications (see table).
ICN type | Treatment methods | The essence |
Functional | Drug therapy | Prescribed medications that restore the natural balance of hormones in a woman’s body. |
Non-surgical cervical correction | Provides for the installation of a relief pessary (Mayer ring). | |
Tracheloplasty | Correction of the uterine cervix by suturing. The operation is possible in early or later stages of pregnancy (but not more than 28 weeks). The date of the procedure is determined by the doctor based on the individual characteristics of the patient’s body. | |
Post-traumatic (organic ICN) | It is carried out if there are gross anatomical defects on the cervix of the uterus (tissue scarring after ruptures during childbirth) and they interfere with pregnancy. | |
Drug treatment | Prescribed drugs that eliminate uterine hypertonicity, antibacterial agents, painkillers. |
The duration of therapy with hormonal drugs is up to 2 weeks. The doctor then re-examines the patient. If the situation has stabilized (there is little risk of miscarriage), treatment is continued. At the same time, the progress of pregnancy is monitored.
When changes in the structure of the organ are insignificant, in addition to hormonal therapy, they resort to installing a plastic ring. The pessary functions as a bandage: it helps to evenly distribute pressure on the cervix and reduce the load on its muscles.
After its diagnosis, a woman should regularly visit a doctor, take flora tests, and undergo an ultrasound. The pessary is removed in the last weeks of pregnancy. However, if bleeding or premature birth occurs, it is removed ahead of schedule.
If the unloading ring is not enough for the normal course of pregnancy, the looseness of the cervix is “corrected” by applying sutures. The operation is performed under local anesthesia in a hospital setting. Indications for surgical treatment of ICI are:
- miscarriages in previous pregnancies;
- enlargement of the external os or the entire cervical canal;
- shortening of the organ, its flabbiness.
Doctors are obliged to take a responsible approach to the choice of anesthesia. It should not act for too long, as this may harm the child.
As a rule, sutures are removed two weeks before the expected date of birth, but exceptions are possible:
- premature contractions;
- complete or partial discharge of amniotic fluid (there is a risk of infection entering the uterus);
- discharge mixed with blood.
The likelihood of complications occurring after surgical treatment of isthmic-cervical insufficiency is minimal, but it is not always resorted to. The operation is not performed if the pregnant woman has the following:
- severe pathologies of the heart and blood vessels;
- infectious, genetic diseases;
- dysfunction of the liver and kidneys;
- fetal malformations;
- pathogenic microflora in the cervix, vagina.
A woman with isthmic-cervical insufficiency has an increased risk of miscarriage. For the same reason, gynecologists often diagnose infertility. Therefore, after confirming the diagnosis, you need to immediately begin treatment.
Prevention measures
Looseness of the uterus during pregnancy can be prevented by following these recommendations:
- Before planning to conceive a child, carefully check women's health;
- do not have abortions, but use effective contraception methods to prevent pregnancy;
- take your choice of partner seriously and regularly check for genital infections;
- do not take any hormonal medications on your own; their use is possible only after examination;
- women with a history of miscarriages or abortions should pay special attention to identifying and treating possible pathology;
- visit a gynecologist in a timely manner throughout pregnancy and undergo the necessary examinations;
- regularly do Kegel exercises, which will strengthen the muscles of the perineum and help the uterus maintain the necessary tone;
- strengthen the immune system (eat right, take vitamins, exercise, spend more time in the fresh air and toughen up).
To summarize all of the above, it is worth noting that inflammation can have completely different etiologies and can be completely asymptomatic or very violent. Prevention and treatment of such a disease depends entirely on the pathogen that provoked it; a treatment regimen and the necessary medications are prescribed exclusively by a specialist, after a series of studies.
“>