Cervix in pregnancy. What should a mother-to-be know about her evolution?

The length of the cervix during pregnancy, as well as its elasticity and shape, for a variety of reasons, can undergo changes that threaten pregnancy. It is also not uncommon for unpleasant symptoms to appear, such as pain or discharge. Any discomfort related to the workings of the reproductive system is cause for concern.

Cervical length in pregnancy – norms

The cervix, a tube-shaped organ that forms the lower part of the uterus, connects the vagina to the uterine cavity. It not only has an important transit function during fertilization and in the expulsion of the unfertilized ovum, but also provides airtight protection for the fetus located in the uterus during pregnancy. The normal length of the cervix during pregnancy, especially in its early stages, in a healthy woman is approx. 3-5 cm. It is tough, as is the case for women who are not pregnant. However, already at the beginning of the first trimester, it undergoes certain physiological (completely natural) changes that only characterize the reproductive system of the mother-to-be. First of all, the cervix at the beginning of pregnancy plugs its outlet, forming the so-called “cervix”. mucus suppository – a protective barrier for the fetus against external factors. In a normal pregnancy, a long, inflexible and closed cervix should remain unchanged until the late stage of the third trimester, when the body, preparing for labor, activates the processes of shortening the cervix and increasing its elasticity and dilating its canal. However, for a variety of reasons, the length of the cervix during pregnancy and its shape, patency or flexibility can be disrupted, posing a risk of preterm labor. In an abnormal situation, it is not uncommon to also experience physical complaints such as lower abdominal and lumbar pain, bleeding from the genital tract or discharge. Any discomfort of concern should be reported to the attending physician.

Shortening of the cervix in pregnancy

Both premature shortening of the cervix during pregnancy and changes in its structure are signals of reproductive organ failure. This is a particularly dangerous situation in the early stages of pregnancy. In addition to the appearance of a short cervix in pregnancy, its mucous membrane is also swollen and the entire organ is flexible. It is then referred to as cervical dilation. Such a phenomenon significantly affects both the course of pregnancy and childbirth, as well as the size of the fetus. The lowering of the cervix in pregnancy is determined by many factors, including:

• Anatomical abnormalities regarding the length of the cervix;
• Past trauma, surgery and treatment of the cervix;
• Cervical polyp during pregnancy and pathological lesions formed before conception;
• hormonal changes;
• Excessive lifestyle during pregnancy, excessive stress and physical exertion;
• multiple pregnancy;
• The large weight and size of the baby pushing against the cervix.

A shortened cervix in early pregnancy does not always provoke painful symptoms. Sometimes the mother-to-be learns about changes in the structure of the organ only during a gynecological examination, which is why regular examinations during pregnancy, as well as observation of one’s own body, are so important.

How to prevent cervical shortening in pregnancy?

Shortening of the cervix is an irreversible process, but it can be slowed down, among other things. Through a specialized suture or disc placed by a doctor. In addition, it is a good idea to rest a lot in a reclining position to relieve pressure on the pelvic organs, avoid physical activity and stress, take care of intimate hygiene and refrain from sexual intercourse.

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