Abdominal Cerclage Procedure in Northern New Jersey

Problems during pregnancy are not uncommon, which is why Dr. Ghomi offers several treatments and procedures to help make this process a bit easier for our patients. One such procedure is a laparoscopic abdominal cerclage, which is used in cases of cervical insufficiency.

Dr. Ali Ghomi provides care for patients located in Bergen County, Paramus, and Hackensack, If you’re experiencing symptoms of cervical insufficiency, visit our urogynecology office in North Jersey. To schedule an appointment with Dr. Ghomi call us at (973) 754-4093 or request an appointment through our secure online form.

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What Is Cervical Insufficiency?

A woman’s cervix is located at the base of the uterus, and is the connecting structure between the uterus and vagina. Normally, the cervix will change during pregnancy and childbirth to soften and widen so that the baby is able to pass through the birth canal when born.

Cervical insufficiency is a malfunction of the cervix that causes dilation to occur much earlier in the pregnancy than it should. Also known as an incompetent cervix, this condition can often result in premature birth or miscarriage. Cervical insufficiency does not usually cause any symptoms like pain or contractions, making it difficult for women to seek proper care until the cervix is fully dilated.

How Does an Abdominal Cerclage Treat Cervical Insufficiency?

Many women with cervical insufficiency will need to be monitored more closely throughout their pregnancy. This can include more frequent appointments with Dr. Ghomi, during which diagnostic testing is often performed to determine the health of the fetus and whether the mother is showing any distressing signs or symptoms.

In addition to these extra visits, women may also elect to have Dr. Ghomi perform a procedure known as abdominal cerclage. This procedure involves placing a surgical seal around the cervix to hold it firmly in place during pregnancy.

Abdominal cerclage is highly effective and is not associated with severe risks or complications, especially when performed laparoscopically. Laparoscopic abdominal cerclage is less invasive, and is associated with reduced risks and recovery times.

Most patients will undergo an abdominal cerclage procedure prior to becoming pregnant, which is ideal considering that any significant treatment of the cervix during pregnancy can increase the risks to the unborn child. Women typically experience a small amount of postoperative pain following their abdominal cerclage that can be managed using over-the-counter pain relievers.

What Should I Expect from Child Birth After an Abdominal Cerclage?

Women who have their cervix reinforced using abdominal cerclage will not be eligible for a natural birthing process. Instead, a cesarean delivery, or C-section, will be required once the fetus has developed fully and can be expected to thrive outside of the womb.

The surgical seal that is placed during an abdominal cerclage procedure can safely remain banded around the cervix after the child has been born. Couples can expect the results of an abdominal cerclage to remain effective during later pregnancies should they wish to have more children, or women may choose to have the band removed at any time if they so desire.

When Should I Seek an Abdominal Cerclage?

Women who have suffered a loss during pregnancy may complete an abdominal cerclage approximately 90 days afterward. Of course, some may wait until much later, but it is recommended that the procedure be performed prior to any additional attempts to conceive a child.