Cervicometry

During pregnancy, it is important to control not only the development of the fetus, but also the changes that occur in the woman’s body. One of such indicators is the condition of the cervix, because its premature shortening can increase the risk of complications. Cervicometry helps measure the length of the cervix and determine in time whether the patient needs additional observation or treatment.

At the medical center «Oxford Medical», cervicometry is performed on modern expert-class ultrasound equipment. The doctor evaluates the length of the cervix, the condition of the cervical canal and the internal os, after which explains the results and provides appropriate recommendations.

Cervicometry — is an ultrasound measurement of the length of the cervix during pregnancy. Ultrasound cervicometry allows assessing whether its condition corresponds to the term of pregnancy, whether there are no signs of premature shortening, opening of the internal os or other changes that can affect the course of pregnancy.

Most often, ultrasound cervicometry is performed by the transvaginal method. It makes it possible to obtain more accurate indicators than an examination through the anterior abdominal wall.

During the study, the following are assessed:

• the length of the cervix;
• the condition of the internal and external os;
• the shape of the cervical canal;
• the presence of signs of funnel-shaped dilation of the internal os;
• the dynamics of changes, if the examination is performed repeatedly.

Cervicometry of the cervix gives the doctor important information for further management of the patient. If the cervix shortens faster than expected, the obstetrician-gynecologist may recommend more frequent monitoring, medication support, an obstetric pessary or other methods according to the situation.

According to the recommendations of International Society of Ultrasound in Obstetrics and Gynecology, transvaginal measurement of the length of the cervix is used to assess the risk of preterm birth. The indicator has particular importance in the second trimester, when the cervix normally usually remains stable.

Doctors of «Oxford Medical» explain: the frequency of monitoring is determined individually, taking into account the term of pregnancy, complaints, history and previous examination results.

There are usually no absolute contraindications to cervicometry. The study has no radiation load, does not affect the development of the child and can be performed repeatedly if this is needed to control the course of pregnancy.

In some cases, the doctor may temporarily postpone the transvaginal study or choose another method of assessment. This is possible with heavy bleeding, pronounced pain, an acute inflammatory process or other situations when a vaginal examination is undesirable.

Doctors of «Oxford Medical» note: before the procedure, it is important to inform the specialist about pain, bloody discharge, leakage of fluid, an increase in temperature or a sharp deterioration in well-being. This helps to conduct the examination safely and correctly determine further tactics.

Special preparation for cervicometry is usually not needed. It is sufficient for the patient to follow the usual rules of intimate hygiene and come to the examination at the appointed time.

Before the procedure, it is recommended to:

• inform the doctor about the term of pregnancy and existing complaints;
• clarify whether there were previously operations on the cervix, preterm births or pregnancy losses;
• empty the bladder immediately before the transvaginal study.

Before the examination, the doctor may briefly explain how the procedure will take place and answer the patient’s questions. This helps reduce anxiety and make the visit more comfortable.

In most cases, cervicometry is performed transvaginally. The patient lies on the couch, after which the doctor uses a thin ultrasound probe with a disposable protective cover. The examination usually lasts a few minutes and should not cause pain.

During the procedure, the doctor carefully inserts the probe into the vagina and displays the image of the cervix on the screen. After this, the doctor measures its length, assesses the condition of the cervical canal, the internal os, and possible signs of premature changes.

Cervicometry during pregnancy has a clear purpose — to assess the cervix. It does not replace a complete ultrasound during pregnancy, during which the doctor assesses fetal development, the placenta, amniotic fluid, and other important indicators.

Doctors of Oxford Medical explain: if a short cervix is detected during the examination, this does not mean that complications will necessarily occur. But such a result requires assessment by an obstetrician-gynecologist, monitoring over time and, according to indications, treatment.

The price for cervicometry can be viewed here, and also clarified with the administrators during registration. At the medical center «Oxford Medical», the study is performed on expert-class ultrasound equipment, which allows obtaining the most accurate result.

If necessary, the patient can also receive a consultation with an obstetrician-gynecologist, take the necessary tests and undergo additional diagnostics. All medical services for monitoring the course of pregnancy and assessing the state of women’s health are available at the clinic.

To make an appointment for the examination, call the contact center or use the feedback form on the website. If you need cervicometry in Kyiv or in Irpin, the administrator will help choose a convenient location, date and time of the visit.

The information is for informational purposes and does not replace a consultation with a doctor.

Sources:

• International Society of Ultrasound in Obstetrics and Gynecology
• Society for Maternal-Fetal Medicine
• PubMed Central