Cervical insufficiency

Cervical insufficiency, sometimes called an incompetent cervix, describes a weakness of the cervix that can cause it to open painlessly before a pregnancy reaches term, most often in the second trimester, leading to pregnancy loss or very preterm birth. It may relate to previous cervical surgery, congenital factors, or a history of difficult vaginal deliveries. It is usually identified from a history of previous second-trimester losses with a similar pattern, sometimes supported by cervical length scans in a subsequent pregnancy. Management such as cervical cerclage (a stitch to support the cervix) or other monitoring is planned with an obstetrician in a future pregnancy.

Also known as: incompetent cervix

Last reviewed: 9 September 2026. Written by the Antega Editorial Team. General information only — always follow the advice of your own clinic, doctor or pharmacist.