What Is a “Weakened Cervix,” and Can We Please Rethink This Term?

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Updated: Dec. 2, 2021

Originally Published: Dec. 2, 2021

James Smith, an actor known for his roles in teen dramas, recently shared the joy of welcoming his new son, Finn. In his post, James expressed his excitement but also opened up about the challenges he and his partner, Emma, faced after experiencing consecutive late-term pregnancy losses. Concerned about another heartbreak, they decided to keep their latest pregnancy under wraps and found a supportive doctor in their Texas town. James mentioned that the doctor attributed their previous losses to a “weakened cervix,” a term he found to be both outdated and problematic.

What’s a “Weakened Cervix” Anyway?

First off, major kudos to James for calling attention to the biases inherent in labeling a woman’s anatomy as “weakened” following the trauma of pregnancy loss. It’s important to note that this term can apply to transgender and nonbinary individuals as well, but the historical context suggests an unfair blame placed on women for reproductive challenges. Alternative phrases like “cervical insufficiency” are gaining popularity, and it’s about time we made this change.

So, what exactly does a weakened cervix mean, and why can it be a risk during pregnancy? Essentially, it refers to cervical tissue that’s not strong enough to handle the weight of a growing uterus. According to the Mayo Clinic, this condition can lead to premature births or even the loss of otherwise healthy pregnancies.

Normally, the cervix is firm and closed before pregnancy but softens and opens as the pregnancy progresses. A weakened cervix, however, may open too early, leading to complications.

How Do You Identify a Weakened Cervix?

Diagnosing a weakened cervix can be tricky since it often goes unnoticed until after a loss. Signs to watch for include spotting between weeks 14 and 20, pelvic pressure, backaches, cramping, changes in vaginal discharge, or bleeding. Risk factors can be difficult to pinpoint too; past cervical trauma from procedures like D&Cs or previous labor may contribute to this condition. Interestingly, research shows that Black women may face a higher risk of developing a weakened cervix. Although some congenital conditions can also play a role, diagnosis often only comes after experiencing a pregnancy loss.

Can You Prevent or Treat a Weakened Cervix?

Sadly, there’s no way to prevent a weakened cervix. If you face a premature birth or late-term loss due to this condition, remember it’s not your fault. Still, making healthy choices can promote a better pregnancy. Regular prenatal care, nutritious eating, and avoiding harmful substances like tobacco and alcohol are always good steps.

If you know you have a weakened cervix, there are treatment options available. Discuss your situation with your doctor to explore ways to boost your chances of a healthy pregnancy. They might prescribe medications to help maintain cervical strength or recommend more frequent ultrasounds. In some cases, a cervical cerclage—essentially stitching the cervix closed—might be performed to help keep your baby safe until it’s time for delivery. James and Emma were able to have a successful full-term pregnancy with this procedure after their previous losses. It’s worth noting that some doctors may wait for multiple losses before suggesting a cerclage, which isn’t fair to hopeful parents.

Anyone who has faced pregnancy loss knows how heart-wrenching it can be. One loss is devastating enough; there’s no reason for hopeful parents to endure multiple heartbreaks before receiving a diagnosis. Let’s hope more medical professionals become proactive in recommending cervical cerclage after just one loss. And for those looking to conceive, know that procedures exist to significantly raise the likelihood of having a healthy baby.

For more information about home insemination, check out resources like Make a Mom or their how it works page. If you’re considering insemination options, you can also explore their artificial insemination kit for a comprehensive solution. For additional insights into fertility, visit Science Daily for the latest studies. And if you’re looking for a supportive community, consider joining Make a Mom’s Facebook group for those seeking sperm donor matching.

In summary, understanding the term “weakened cervix” and advocating for better terminology and treatment options is crucial. Everyone deserves to navigate the journey to parenthood with the support and knowledge they need, without unnecessary stigma or loss.