A cervical stitch is an operation where a suture is placed around the cervix or the neck of the womb in pregnancy to provide support to the cervix and reduce the chances of preterm delivery.

It is usually done in women who have had multiple mid trimester pregnancy losses or preterm deliveries or if you have had an extensive operation done on the cervix.

The procedure is done under general anaesthetic at LGH or St Vincent's around 14 weeks of pregnancy but may be done later if an ultrasound incidentally picks up a shortened cervix (a rescue stitch).

If you have a history of early onset deliveries in your past pregnancies (less than 34 weeks) or have undergone operations on your cervix, please let your Obstetrician know. We will arrange an ultrasound for you to assess the length of the cervix and plan your management.

For more information on Cervical Stitch, click here.