Cervical insufficiency, also known as cervical incompetence, is a condition in which the cervix becomes weakened and opens too early during pregnancy, increasing the risk of premature birth or miscarriage. This teaching brochure provides an overview of cervical insufficiency, including its signs/symptoms, treatment options, nursing care before and after treatment, as well as the associated risks and complications.
Signs and Symptoms:
– Painless dilation of the cervix in the second trimester
– Increased pelvic pressure or backache
– Vaginal discharge or bleeding
– Sensation of “something coming out” of the vagina
Treatment:
1. Cervical Cerclage: This procedure involves the placement of a stitch around the cervix to reinforce it and prevent premature opening. It is typically performed between weeks 12-14 of pregnancy and removed around week 37.
2. Progesterone Supplementation: Administering progesterone can help reduce the risk of premature birth in women with cervical insufficiency. It can be given through injections or vaginal suppositories.
Nursing Care before Treatment:
1. Assessment: Assess the woman’s symptoms, including pain, bleeding, or discharge, along with any risk factors for cervical insufficiency.
2. Emotional Support: Provide emotional support and reassurance to the woman and her partner, as a diagnosis of cervical insufficiency can be distressing.
3. Education: Educate the woman about the condition, its management, and the importance of following healthcare provider’s instructions.
Nursing Care after Treatment:
1. Monitoring: Monitor the woman’s vital signs, fetal heart rate, and uterine contraction patterns regularly.
2. Bedrest: Advise the woman to limit physical activity and avoid lifting heavy objects to reduce the risk of cervical stress.
3. Emotional Support: Continue offering emotional support and counseling to help alleviate anxiety and stress.
Risk and Complications:
1. Preterm Birth: Cervical insufficiency increases the risk of preterm birth, which can result in various complications for the baby, such as respiratory distress syndrome and developmental delays.
2. Infection: Surgery or invasive procedures (such as cervical cerclage) can increase the risk of infection. Monitor for signs of infection, such as fever or foul-smelling vaginal discharge.
3. Bleeding: Mild vaginal spotting and bleeding are common after cervical cerclage. However, heavy bleeding or persistent bleeding should be reported to the healthcare provider immediately.
It is essential to consult healthcare professionals and refer to authoritative sources for accurate and up-to-date information on cervical insufficiency. Two references are provided below:
Reference 1:
Perry, S. E., Hockenberry, M. J., Lowdermilk, D. L., & Wilson, D. (2017). Maternal child nursing care (6th ed.). St. Louis, MO: Elsevier.
Reference 2:
American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists. (2018). Cervical insufficiency. Retrieved from [insert URL]
Please consult the APA Manual or Purdue OWL website for guidelines on APA formatting for web references.
