What is a dehiscent cervix?

What is a dehiscent cervix?

Marie, my doctor said I have cervical dehiscence. What does that mean? I didn’t dare ask. Thanks in advance, Adeline.

Adeline, it’s a great question because the term dehiscence is not frequently used with future mothers.

The cervix is a channel that is about 3 centimetres wide, with two openings at the extremities. One of the openings, more towards the inside, is in contact with the uterus. The opposite one is more in contact with the vaginal mucosa.

A dehiscent cervix means that the external cervix, the one that is touched first during a gynecological exam, is slowly opening. The internal cervix, which is deeper, remains closed.

This situation often occurs later in the pregnancy as the additional weight of the baby and uterus can cause the cervix to open a bit.

This in no way means you are in labour, or that you will start labour soon. No one knows when you will start. But be assured that it’s not labour, it just means that your cervix has opened a bit.

I hope this helps Adeline. All the best!

Talk soon,

Marie

The Baby Expert

Discover our videos

Subscribe to a monthly or quarterly package now to access full videos.

33-34 weeks pregnant, Childbirth

Caesarian deliveries

Some pregnancies end with a caesarian section. To prepare for this option, Marie meets with Dr. Guy Waddell. You will

31-32 weeks pregnant, Baby/parents, Prenatal

Bathing a Newborn

You might feel insecure giving a newborn a bath. Marie demonstrates a newborn bath massage with baby Romain. After watching

11-12 weeks pregnant, 25-26 weeks pregnant, Baby/parents, Prenatal

Pelvic Floor

The pelvic floor is usually forgotten during the preparation for childbirth. See why it’s important and how you can tone

27-28 weeks pregnant, Baby/parents, Childbirth, Prenatal

Breastfeeding: Specific Situations

Are you breastfeeding and it’s painful? Are you worried you can’t produce enough milk? Along with Dr. Julie Choquette, Marie

View all available videos

Warning

The mariefortier.com website and the comprehensive information it contains are intended as practical tools for expectant parents preparing for the arrival of their baby. These are not meant to replace the skills, knowledge, and experience of qualified health professionals who are familiar with the facts, circumstances, and symptoms specific to each individual. As such, Marie Fortier Inc. and its employees cannot be held responsible for any potential adverse effects or consequences resulting from the use of information provided on this website. It is the user’s responsibility to consult a physician or other qualified health professional for personal matters concerning them.