Cervical Insufficiency Clinical Presentation

Updated: Apr 19, 2021
  • Author: Errol R Norwitz, MD, PhD, MBA; Chief Editor: Ronald M Ramus, MD  more...
  • Print
Presentation

History

The diagnosis of cervical insufficiency is primarily based on a history of a prior midtrimester pregnancy loss. Patients typically present with painless cervical dilation and bulging fetal membranes in the second trimester, followed by the rapid delivery of a previable infant. Although most patients are asymptomatic, they may present with pelvic pressure, cramping, back pain, or increased vaginal discharge. Uterine contractions are typically rare or absent. In women without a history of pregnancy loss, the diagnosis is based on a combination of clinical presentation, physical examination, and ultrasound findings.