When the cervix begins to shorten and open too early during pregnancy, leading to a late miscarriage or preterm birth, the condition known as cervical weakness is often treated with a cervical stitch, or cerclage. It is normal to experience some cramping and light bleeding or spotting for a few days following the procedure. After a cervical cerclage, you shouldn't experience much pain—typically no more than during a usual menstrual cycle.

A cervical stitch can help keep your cervix closed, reducing the risk of preterm labor or late miscarriage. Typically, the stitch is placed between 12 and 24 weeks of pregnancy and removed at 36-37 weeks, unless you go into labor earlier. This common surgical treatment involves placing a suture (stitch) around the cervix to provide mechanical support and lower the risk of preterm birth. However, a cervical stitch may not be suitable for all women. An alternative treatment for a weak cervix is prophylactic vaginal progesterone. High doses of progesterone can help delay the onset of labor. This hormone is administered as a pessary, which is inserted into the vagina.