Cervix in pregnancy
Cervix in pregnancy
The cervix plays an important role in retaining the fetus. Up to 36 weeks it is in the normal closed state. This state of closeness prevents the infection from entering the fetus. By the beginning of 37-38 weeks, the cervix begins to prepare for childbirth.
The length of the cervix. Its consistency
After fertilization, the cervix changes color: from pinkish to bluish. The reason for this is the extensive vascular network and its blood supply. Dense consistency of the cervix during pregnancy is the norm. Its length is 4-5 cm in a pervious woman and about 2-3 cm in a woman with a multiple birth. Such characteristics of the cervix can perform the basic function of retaining the fetus. By the beginning of 38 weeks of pregnancy, the neck becomes softer, shortens in size. Its position becomes central. The gradual opening of the cervix begins. During childbirth, it opens up to 11-13 cm. Then it returns to the almost initial state. Pathologies of the cervix during pregnancy
One of the most common pathologiesis a short cervix during pregnancy. For ultrasound examination, the length of the short neck is less than 25 mm. The reasons for the insufficient length of the neck are her injuries in previous births, abortions. The deviation is also the expansion of the internal pharynx. Within the norm, it should be in a closed state. As a result of pathologies and abnormalities, the neck can not perform its functions. There is a threat of premature birth. Some women face the problem of immaturity of the cervix in a full-term pregnancy. One of the reasons is the fear of childbirth, as well as the anatomical features of a woman. The degree of maturity of the cervix is assessed in points for a number of symptoms. Examination of the cervix in the office of a gynecologist
Initial examination of a gynecologist will helpdetermine the shape of the cervix of the pregnant woman, its magnitude, consistency, and location. In normal healthy pregnancy, the cervix is dense, it is deflected back. Shortened, softened cervix indicates a threat of miscarriage. The doctor will determine this and take timely measures to preserve the pregnancy. During the examinations the gynecologist takes the following tests: a smear on the flora, a smear for cytological examination. Ultrasound examination will allow the doctor to determine the length, condition of the internal and external throat, as well as the cervical canal itself, which is very important in the event of the threat of premature birth. As a rule, under condition of absence of pathologies of the cervix, a planned study is conducted at 22, 26, 30, 34, 36 weeks of pregnancy.
