Incompetent Cervix
Medically reviewed by Drugs.com. Last updated on Mar 10, 2025.
Incompetent cervix is also called cervical insufficiency. An incompetent cervix is a condition that causes your cervix to start opening at 4 to 6 months of pregnancy. The cervix is the bottom part of the uterus. Normally, the cervix remains closed for the full 9 months of pregnancy. An incompetent cervix may begin to thin and widen without any pain or contractions. The amniotic fluid sac may bulge down into the opening of your cervix until it breaks. This can cause a miscarriage or premature delivery of your baby.
DISCHARGE INSTRUCTIONS:
Return to the emergency department if:
- You have fluid draining from your vagina.
- You have foul-smelling discharge coming from your vagina.
- You have regular contractions.
- You have any vaginal bleeding.
Contact your healthcare provider if:
- You have a fever.
- You have chills, a cough, or feel weak and achy.
- You have lower abdominal or back pain.
- You have questions or concerns about your condition or care.
Drugs used to treat this and similar conditions
Mifeprex
Mifeprex is an oral progestin antagonist that may be given in combination with misoprostol to end ...
Pitocin
Pitocin is used for abortion, labor induction, postpartum bleeding
Dinoprostone topical
Dinoprostone topical is used for abortion, labor induction, trophoblastic disease
Carboprost
Carboprost systemic is used for abortion, postpartum bleeding
Oxytocin
Oxytocin systemic is used for abortion, labor induction, postpartum bleeding
Mifepristone
Mifepristone (Mifeprex) is an oral tablet that may be used with misoprostol tablets to end a ...
Misoprostol
Misoprostol reduces stomach acid and helps protect the stomach lining from damage that can be ...
Follow up with your healthcare provider or obstetrician as directed:
Write down your questions so you remember to ask them during your visits.
Rest:
You may need to rest in bed on your left side most of the time. This may help prevent premature labor or delivery.
Do not smoke:
If you smoke, it is never too late to quit. Smoking can cause premature labor or delivery. Ask your healthcare provider for information if you need help quitting.
© Copyright Merative 2025 Information is for End User's use only and may not be sold, redistributed or otherwise used for commercial purposes.
The above information is an educational aid only. It is not intended as medical advice for individual conditions or treatments. Talk to your doctor, nurse or pharmacist before following any medical regimen to see if it is safe and effective for you.
Further information
Always consult your healthcare provider to ensure the information displayed on this page applies to your personal circumstances.