O34: Maternal care for known or suspected abnormality of pelvic organs

O34.3: Maternal care for cervical incompetence

Maternal care for cervical incompetence refers to the special healthcare services offered to a pregnant woman who has a weak or short cervix. This condition, often known as 'cervical insufficiency', can potentially cause serious problems during pregnancy, such as premature birth and possible miscarriage. The cervix is the lower part of the uterus that opens into the vagina, and in normal circumstances, it remains closed and firm during pregnancy until it's time for childbirth. However, in cases of cervical incompetence, the cervix might shorten and open too early, leading to trouble in carrying a pregnancy to full term. This condition is typically identified by painless dilation of the cervix without contractions during the second or early third trimester of pregnancy, often leading to early rupture of membranes and preterm delivery. This makes careful monitoring and potential intervention crucial for the health of both the mother and the baby.