Incompetent Cervix - stitch/cerclage - threatened labour

[mich1365]

Oye. I must admit coming back to this thread as I do gives me a huge pit in my stomach. I can feel everyone's situation with such depth having lived it. It is so upsetting the things that people must endure. Lizzie, sorry for what you are enduring right now. Sherri, so happy for you. The babies born, the babies lost. Such a contrast of emotions in one place. I guess this thread really embodies life... it's most precious and most horrid moments.
I wish I had more faith. I just feel some of us get lucky and some of us not randomly and its just not fair. I was a lucky one this time. Adrian is perfect minus one testicle that has not dropped. We would surely have signed for that to be the only problem a year ago. He is 6 months in a few days and is my little happiness. He never stops smiling and I think I know why.
Helen, isnt life with two "different" than it was with one? Wow! Good thing I went through so much shit, or I just might complain I know you understand. There is an upside to almost everything I suppose...
xo

 

[Sherri81]

Hey girls, I'm super exhausted, as is to be expected I assume, lol. So please ignore any spelling mistakes.

I just wanted to summarize my pregnancy plan for those that are late comers to the thread. There are alot of pages to read through, and sometimes things get missed.

My history... many miscarriages, mainly between weeks 11-13, and after heart beats were established. I did have a couple of early ones as well, in which no heart beat was ever detected. All losses, except the one 5 weeks on, required at least on D&C, and in the case of the latest term one, 2 D&C's. So there has been lots of manipulation to my cervix. I have also had D&C's just because they wanted to take a look inside my non pregnant uterus, to look for fibroids etc, and then, 'while they were in there' they decided to give me a new lining since they had already disturbed the one in place.

I have also had one micro preemie that lived, Greg, born at 25 weeks exactly, weighing 1 pound 9 ounces. I have had one micro preemie that died, Devon, born at 23+1 or 2, weighing 1 pound 2 ounces. She was born alive, but died 40 minutes or so after birth.

No one could figure out whether it was PTL, or IC. Both pregnancies and deliveries were confusing...

The miscarriages are believed to have been due to blood clotting. For that I took a combo of baby asprin and Fragmin injections. If you don't have this complicating factor, this won't be neccessary in your particular case.

I entered into this last pregnancy about 9 weeks after delivering Devon, and after her passing. Her delivery/labour, had been brought on by a severe case of BV, that went untreated despite my trying to get it treated for almost a week. I did have a McDonald cerclage in case it was IC. At this point, no one knew why I couldn't carry. So I had the stitch and contracted BV that went untreated. Labour progressed, I ripped beside the stitch, and delivered her. I had severe chorioamniotitis at this point, which also went untreated, as they believed delivery cleared everything. I continued to be very infected for about 2.5 weeks after her birth, when my OB finally came back from holidays, looked, and then treated me with daily IV therapy, which didn't work, and just over 3 weeks after delivering, I had to have yet another D&C to remove necrotic, deciduous, tissue. My uterus was very fragile after this, and I had to take Estrogen in order to build a lining again, and then Provera to bring on a cycle. I then took Clomid on that very first cycle, and got pregnant with Colby.

I was very specific with my treatment this time. In point form, this is what I did. This was just what I felt would work for me, and it did, as I got to 36+1 before delivering:
-asprin and Fragmin from 4.5 weeks
-Prometrium suppositories taken rectally, twice daily, until about 33 weeks, at which time I started weaning off of them
-Metformin was continued until about 26/27 weeks
-Sharodkur cerclage was placed at 14 weeks
-Indocid was given post surgery to stop uterine contractions
-I was given free reign to take Flagyl whenever I thought I had BV. I knew the signs, so my Dr trusted me with and open ended prescription. I took it after the surgery, and a couple of other times, usually once every 3 weeks, up until about 24 weeks, when I never noticed any other symptoms again
-NO internal exams! Not a one!
-NO internal ultrasounds
-for yeast infection I used the one time Canestan capsule, placed in the vagina with sterile hands only, no applicator
-NO panty liners, to decrease the chances of a YI
-ate yogurt with pro biotics every day, even though many people say it doesn't work
-found a pro biotic at Wal Mart in Canada, called RePhresh Pro-B, I think. Took it every day; its supposed to prevent YI and BV, and I never did get either after starting it. Co-incidence or not??
-drank decaf tea, at least a cup, every day, to prevent UTIs. The tannins help the bacteria stop adhering to the bladder wall. Cranberry juice and blueberry juice work too.
-Bed rest in the hospital from 21-24 weeks.
-bed rest in Vancouver from 26-31 weeks
-ultrasounds performed every other week to check cervical length abdominally
-finally submitted to a speculum exam and swabs at 33+4 I think
-NST's done twice a week from 30 weeks on, and then three times a week from about 35 weeks on

I think that was about it. My Drs were very good at following my lead... Well my OB at least. The MFMs weren't so great...

I got to 35+4 before I started failing bio-physical profiles. By the time the c-section was performed, I had been having contractions on and off for about a week and a half. I'd had some spotting. by 35+5, I was effaced, and had no cervix left above the stitch, and the stitch was pulling and under pressure. It never gave out though, although it was coming close, they feel. It was removed after the c-section was done.

Colby is home, after being born at 36+1 and staying in the NICU for 12 days.

 

[rensben]

Hi everyone,

I've been offline for a bit and haven't updated or commented in a week or so. My husband came home on a surprise visit from Afganistan because we all thought I was going to go into labour last week. Well, I did not and he left again today I am now 34 weeks and holding! I am scheduled to have my stitch taken out on July 13th (35 weeks) because there is almost nothing left of my cervix and I feel pulling when I get contractions. They will keep me for 24 hours after the removal to see if I go into labour. If not, then I go back home and wait it out. Anyone know what the average length of time is before going into labour? I am thinking a week but maybe not...any ideas? Hope you are all well!

 

[Jule71]

Sherri- Thank you so much for sharing your experiences and your successful plan. I am sorry you've been through so much, but now you have a healthy baby boy, CONGRATS, you did it!!! You are very lucky and being your own advocate and being pro-active (along with a supportive OB) got you so far.

May I ask you a few questions? I know you are busy with a newborn, so there is no rush.

I know this is a little tmi, but how exactly did you do your prometrium rectally? Did you use gloves or just used clean fingers? Did you push up high or just enough to get it in there? What dose were you on? I'm on 200mg/day and I am interested in doing it rectally instead of vaginally or orally. Do you know if it still works as well orally? What are the benefits of doing them rectally? I haven't heard many people do it rectally, so am curious.

Also, what were your signs of BV compared to YI? I am fighting a YI right now and have been off and on for awhile. I think I will get some of that rephresh pro B and see if it helps. My Dr did swabs and everything comes back negative for BV but I am petrified of developing it. I have no knowledge of ever having it, so not sure of the symptoms, but I guess it's almost the same as a YI.

May I ask why you didn't take over the counter yeast infection pill? Canesten has one and you don't need an rx for it. My MFM said I could try that or he'd give me an rx for Diflucan if my YI doesn't clear up with Monistat (which I'm taking now)

What kind of yogurt did you eat? I'm in BC as well and we have same brands of yogurt. I'm on Liberte plain organic and also eat Activia. I'm also drinking sugarless cranberry juice, the expensive kind, not the Ocean Spray kind.

Thank you for your help and Congrats on your new baby boy Colby!

Julia

 

[Mommy's Angel]

Hi ladies,

Since I've never gotten this far before and the stitch feeling is also new, I was wondering if you could help me.

I feel kinda odd today. Like a big water balloon is in my belly only it feels full from below the belly button to the pelvic area. Is this something to be concerned about? I know this sounds kind of silly, but it feels like it could pop while I'm sitting back in bed.

I'm also feeling kind of like a burning sensation while I pee. Last time it had to do with the white thread that came out. This time I'm wondering if it could be a pulling feeling.

It could be that she just weighs more which is what I'm guessing, but it feels fully from the lower abdomen and in the lower back area. I don't know when they start to move upward, but I don't see any sign of moving past the belly button for some reason.

Just thought I'd get your take on it as I don't honestly know if this is something to call to get checked on or not. I don't want to keep going there weekly alarmed. Obviously I think she's hit the stitch. At least that's what it feels like.

 

[Jule71]

Hi R,

It sounds like your little Amelia is very low right now causing some pressure. My little guy is still very very low and I can remember with my DD she was always low too. I don't remember her ever being up above my pelvis, tbh. I think that she is getting bigger and causing you to feel more uncomfortable.

BUT-if something feels 'off' then it wouldn't hurt to just give your Dr a call at least.. it could be nothing, but it could be something... If in doubt, check it out is my new motto. The thing that is making me wonder that it could be something is the burning when you pee. I know you are getting treated for uti, so probably just that, but I'm not sure.

Hopefully others will chime in with their opinions and make you feel better. I'm on another message board that is for women with IC ONLY and there are a lot of very supportive women there who are going through the same. Would you like me to PM you the link?

Keep us posted on how you feeling.

 

[Mommy's Angel]

Thanks Jules. I thought it was her getting bigger. My husband an RN, mentioned that the cervix and lower back get a heavy feeling because of the change of the baby. I bet that's what I'm feeling. As for the burning, last time it happened I lose the dissolving stitch, so I'm wondering if she's just gotten so heavy that she's at the stitch and it's pulling a bit. I have a sono next Friday so I'm sure we'll see if anything is up.

In the meantime, I think I'm just going to get some cranberry pills and keep downing the yogurt. I'm going to see if that Rephresh is something we get here in the states.

Rensben, aww, must have been lovely to see hubby. Sad to see him go again though. Will he get to come back in July again?

As far as the stitch issue, I'm not sure about timing. I know I was told with 17P injections and the stitch (they'll both come out at 36wks) It could be a weeks time before we start having contractions for labor though I've seen quite a few women make it to 40wks. We're guessing Amelia will be here sometime between mid Sept and her actual Due date in Oct. would LOVE Oct. But as long as she's healthy I'd rather her here at any healthy gestation date.

Please keep us posted dear. Goodness I cant believe it!

 

[Jule71]

Thanks Jules. I thought it was her getting bigger. My husband an RN, mentioned that the cervix and lower back get a heavy feeling because of the change of the baby. I bet that's what I'm feeling. As for the burning, last time it happened I lose the dissolving stitch, so I'm wondering if she's just gotten so heavy that she's at the stitch and it's pulling a bit. I have a sono next Friday so I'm sure we'll see if anything is up.

In the meantime, I think I'm just going to get some cranberry pills and keep downing the yogurt. I'm going to see if that Rephresh is something we get here in the states.

Rensben, aww, must have been lovely to see hubby. Sad to see him go again though. Will he get to come back in July again?

As far as the stitch issue, I'm not sure about timing. I know I was told with 17P injections and the stitch (they'll both come out at 36wks) It could be a weeks time before we start having contractions for labor though I've seen quite a few women make it to 40wks. We're guessing Amelia will be here sometime between mid Sept and her actual Due date in Oct. would LOVE Oct. But as long as she's healthy I'd rather her here at any healthy gestation date.

Please keep us posted dear. Goodness I cant believe it!

Lucky you to have a DH who's an RN

You definitely can get rephresh pro B in the States... I think CVS or Walgreens has it... check their website and it will give you a list of where they sell it.

 

[ErinMayasmum]

Thanks to everyone for your kind words. I'm afraid there us not much more I can say at the moment as I don't have much more knowledge or experience regarding cerclages and the like at the moment.
We are seeing our consultant next month so we will see what he has to say and what our options are for the future. I'm sure I will be on here again asking questions after that..
From what I have read on here it looks like you are all very strong, brave and determined women-I hope I can be like you if and when we try again for another child.
You are also all very supportive and kind and I am very glad I found this thread.
I will post again when I have more news and in the meantime I will keep up to date with all your news.
Lots of love and luck to everyone!
xxx

 

[lizziedripping]

Hi MA - what you feel is ok hun, bubs is getting bigger, and after 24wks you do begin to feel the "bowling ball! sensation as the weight of the baby makes itself known. It's a sensation you'll get used to, and feels weird because this is new to you and because you have the added anxiety of preterm birth. Just keep resting hun, you will get there xxx

Sherri - brilliant news that Colby arrived safely and with a relatively short stay in the NICU. Take care of yourself honey, and enjoy your LO. Pics would be lovely when you have a moment to post xxx

Rensben, you are doing so well hun. Once the stitch is out, you may actually contract fairly quickly, only because you have a sensitive uterus. Under normal circumstances most women actually make it to term after stitch removal - the uterus has to contract to dilate the cervix fully before baby can come out at that stage. You might still go on for several weeks tho, because it isn't predictable, and your contractions may not be strong enough to dilate you as much as is necessary. Fingers crossed for you hun, you are a star!!! xxx

 

[Mommy's Angel]

Hi MA - what you feel is ok hun, bubs is getting bigger, and after 24wks you do begin to feel the "bowling ball! sensation as the weight of the baby makes itself known. It's a sensation you'll get used to, and feels weird because this is new to you and because you have the added anxiety of preterm birth. Just keep resting hun, you will get there xxx

Sherri - brilliant news that Colby arrived safely and with a relatively short stay in the NICU. Take care of yourself honey, and enjoy your LO. Pics would be lovely when you have a moment to post xxx

Rensben, you are doing so well hun. Once the stitch is out, you may actually contract fairly quickly, only because you have a sensitive uterus. Under normal circumstances most women actually make it to term after stitch removal - the uterus has to contract to dilate the cervix fully before baby can come out at that stage. You might still go on for several weeks tho, because it isn't predictable, and your contractions may not be strong enough to dilate you as much as is necessary. Fingers crossed for you hun, you are a star!!! xxx

Thanks so much. I kinda figured that was what it was. I started feeling it about a day or two ago and yesterday as I was riding in the car kind of off the cervix I just felt odd. Last night walking to the bathroom felt HEAVY. Wasn't sure what it was since I've never been this far. Had hoped she'd move up and place some of the weight in the middle where my muscles are stronger but from what I've noticed and what Doug as an RN told me, these muscles aren't used to the new weight and thus are kinda weak.

As for timing. Gee wiz, You can't plan a THING. Everyone keeps asking when I'm due. Ugh, in all likelihood maybe October, but with no guarantees I suppose anytime. We're guessing between mid Sept. up to my due date in Oct. Will be interesting to see. I'd LOVE to take bets.

Good luck Rensben.

 

[sham1]

Hi MA, I'm glad you posted about the heavy feeling! A couple of days after I had my stitch put in at 21 weeks, the baby shifted to a very low position. My whole stomach changed shape and I had a very, very heavy feeling when walking, took days to get used to. I've had 2 check-ups since then and all is fine, the baby is in a low position but head is not engaged and he's not causing my cervix any pressure, in fact my cervix has lengthened since I had it done! I still have the sensation but I'm used to it now and I wear a maternity belt as much as possible when out and about. I'm not sure about the burning sensation when you pee I'd check with your midwife. Shamara xx

 

[ejsmom]

Hi everyone,

I've been offline for a bit and haven't updated or commented in a week or so. My husband came home on a surprise visit from Afganistan because we all thought I was going to go into labour last week. Well, I did not and he left again today I am now 34 weeks and holding! I am scheduled to have my stitch taken out on July 13th (35 weeks) because there is almost nothing left of my cervix and I feel pulling when I get contractions. They will keep me for 24 hours after the removal to see if I go into labour. If not, then I go back home and wait it out. Anyone know what the average length of time is before going into labour? I am thinking a week but maybe not...any ideas? Hope you are all well!

With my last two cerclage removals, I went for about a week. This time, we'll see. I am having my third one removed 7/8. I am going to be monitored for a bit and then we'll take from there. I am also measuring small so who knows...
Good luck to you..

 

[rensben]

Hi everyone,

I've been offline for a bit and haven't updated or commented in a week or so. My husband came home on a surprise visit from Afganistan because we all thought I was going to go into labour last week. Well, I did not and he left again today I am now 34 weeks and holding! I am scheduled to have my stitch taken out on July 13th (35 weeks) because there is almost nothing left of my cervix and I feel pulling when I get contractions. They will keep me for 24 hours after the removal to see if I go into labour. If not, then I go back home and wait it out. Anyone know what the average length of time is before going into labour? I am thinking a week but maybe not...any ideas? Hope you are all well!

With my last two cerclage removals, I went for about a week. This time, we'll see. I am having my third one removed 7/8. I am going to be monitored for a bit and then we'll take from there. I am also measuring small so who knows...
Good luck to you..

Hi there,

Thanks for your response! May I ask how much cervix you had left when they took out your cerclage? I am down to 1.5 and 1cm dilated below the stitch. Baby's head is resting on the cervix but is not engaged. good luck to you too!

Thanks Lizzie...really don't know what to expect. Contractions have eased off in the last few days which I find weird. I am up and about as normal and I think I have less contractions than when I was on modified bed rest. Is this possible? Looks like I'll just have to wait and see!

 

[ejsmom]

Hi everyone,

I've been offline for a bit and haven't updated or commented in a week or so. My husband came home on a surprise visit from Afganistan because we all thought I was going to go into labour last week. Well, I did not and he left again today I am now 34 weeks and holding! I am scheduled to have my stitch taken out on July 13th (35 weeks) because there is almost nothing left of my cervix and I feel pulling when I get contractions. They will keep me for 24 hours after the removal to see if I go into labour. If not, then I go back home and wait it out. Anyone know what the average length of time is before going into labour? I am thinking a week but maybe not...any ideas? Hope you are all well!

With my last two cerclage removals, I went for about a week. This time, we'll see. I am having my third one removed 7/8. I am going to be monitored for a bit and then we'll take from there. I am also measuring small so who knows...
Good luck to you..

Hi there,

Thanks for your response! May I ask how much cervix you had left when they took out your cerclage? I am down to 1.5 and 1cm dilated below the stitch. Baby's head is resting on the cervix but is not engaged. good luck to you too!

Thanks Lizzie...really don't know what to expect. Contractions have eased off in the last few days which I find weird. I am up and about as normal and I think I have less contractions than when I was on modified bed rest. Is this possible? Looks like I'll just have to wait and see!

With my last one, I was just over 1.8cm or so, when the cerclage was taken, I changed to 1cm dilated but held strong for about a week. I went in for induction (funny enough) and was 5cm dilated already. I will let you know what happens tomorrow. I haven't had a cervical length for about 1 1/2 months now..not sure where I stand there.

 

[rensben]

Hi everyone,

Well, it won't be long now. I go in at 8am tomorrow to get my cerclage removed! I am now 35 weeks. The doctor thinks there is a 50/50 chance I'll go into labour immediately and if not then probably within a week or so. I can't believe I have made it this far!! I'm hoping to hold out for another week so she can be born at 36 weeks. To be honest, the thought of going to 40 weeks is a little concerning...it's 35 degress here and I am sooooo uncomfortable..but that's me just being selfish. Wish me luck everyone!!! Hope everyone is doing great!xx

 

[lizziedripping]

Hi everyone - you all ok? It's been very quiet on here lately.

Ren - good luck for tomorrow sweet. Everything crossed for you I am certain all will be well, and your LO just may surprise you and stay in now for the duration. Even with no cervix left, a a 35wk baby doesn't just fall out of a cervix dilated by a few cms. I feel is she were going to come she would have done, stitch or no. Good luck darlin xxx

PS - ladies, I began bleeding off and on over the weekend, so it seems the miscarriage is now inevitable. A scan Thursday will confirm. Tbh, I am relieved to finally be getting closure - there is nothing worse than falsely waiting and hoping. We will be trying again in a month or so, this experience has definitely confirmed we would like to have one final baby...............if we are to be blessed again that is xxx

 

[Mommy's Angel]

Hi everyone - you all ok? It's been very quiet on here lately.

Ren - good luck for tomorrow sweet. Everything crossed for you I am certain all will be well, and your LO just may surprise you and stay in now for the duration. Even with no cervix left, a a 35wk baby doesn't just fall out of a cervix dilated by a few cms. I feel is she were going to come she would have done, stitch or no. Good luck darlin xxx

PS - ladies, I began bleeding off and on over the weekend, so it seems the miscarriage is now inevitable. A scan Thursday will confirm. Tbh, I am relieved to finally be getting closure - there is nothing worse than falsely waiting and hoping. We will be trying again in a month or so, this experience has definitely confirmed we would like to have one final baby...............if we are to be blessed again that is xxx

Oh dear. So sorry Lizzie. Breaks my heart. It's bitter-sweet, but it seems as though this has encouraged one more opportunity to extend your family. I only wish you didn't have to go through this experience. My thoughts and prayers are with you.

Rensben. WTG! I'm looking forward to seeing if your little one will surprise the heck out of you and go to term. What a blessing and encouragement that you've passed your fear of your last early milestone and are getting much further. Can't WAIT to finally see pics of this little blessing! \o/

AFM, I'm 27wks 2 days and almost hit my second goal of 28wks. What a relief! This weekend we bought a cream color area rug for Amelia's room and cleared it out. It's started my dreaming! We pay for the furniture next weekend and then it will be delivered two weeks thereafter. I have a baby shower Sept. 3rd and it's freaking me out. I'm excited but to think I'll be 34wks just can't believe it. Of course what goes through my mind is our dear friend who also had her shower at 34wks and her water broke that night.

At least she got to a healthy weight for the baby so I'm not all that worried. The mere fact I'm beyond viability now has me pretty excited!

We went mini van shopping. Haven't found anything yet BUT, Amelia is kicking harder now and Doug was able to feel her kick. It was AMAZING watching his face as he was interacting with her. Just beautiful and blesses my heart!

Friday I have another sono. It's been 5wks so I can't WAIT to see Amelia and how she's doing. It won't be internally which I'm fine with. The less we put up there the better. I've been pretty exhausted lately and not at all sleeping good at night. Can't pinpoint why but it hasn't been fun. Lets face it, I'm moody. My poor husband is a saint!

Hoping everyone else is doing well.

 

[rensben]

Hello!

Well I am back from the hospital. Cerclage was taken out yesterday. I am 2cm dilated and have about 1cm left of cervix. The baby is low and pressing down. The docs think I'll go another week or 2. I'm getting quite impatient! Will let you all know when I go into labour..if I can. Hope you are all well!

 

[sham1]

Rensben! Exciting! How far are you again?