Questions From Readers about the Cerclage

I have gotten a lot of questions since being featured on the Faces of Loss site. Some I will not answer yet because I haven't gotten to that point in the story, but today I am focusing on the cerclage so I can answer them.

What kind of cerclage did you have?

I had the double McDonald stitch. It was done by a perinatologist at 15 weeks. I had an epidural for the procedure.

Did the cerclage hurt?

The actual procedure did not hurt. The epidural did, but it was bearable. The procedure is uncomfortable, but mostly for the fears that go along with it.

Were you worried about the risks of the cerclage?

I was terrified. There is a risk of infection and a risk of them breaking your water during the procedure and the pregnancy ending right there. However, to go without the cerclage meant certain death for my babies so there was really no choice.

Who was your OB/GYN and would you recommend them?

I had a fabulous OB who took my case very seriously seeing me every week through the first and second trimester. I do not want to post his name on here because it reveals where I live to the internet world, but if you send me a message with your e-mail I will send it to you.

Was there any pain after the procedure?

The was some cramping and occasional sharp pains, nothing too bad though.

How about pain long term after the removal?

I did have sharp pains afterwards that continued until my hysterectomy. The were mainly sharp stabbing pains if I sat wrong, or during intimate times. I think maybe it was from scar tissue. Because they took my cervix as well during the hysterectomy there is no more pain.

Do you think bedrest was necessary?

I 100% think it was! I was dilated to the stitch at 22 weeks with funneling when they applied pressure to my abdomen. Funneling is where the cervix tries to open up when pressure is place. Bedrest took a lot of pressure off of my stitch and my cervix. Although it was miserable, I truly believe it saved my babies.

That is all for this round, if you have further questions about anything feel free to send them to me and I will try to get them answered in future blog posts. Have a great weekend!