Althuisius, S.Dekker, G.van Geijn, H.2006-06-242006-06-242002Obstetrical and Gynecological Survey, 2002; 57(6):377-3870029-78281533-9866http://hdl.handle.net/2440/8421Cervical incompetence is not a categoric but rather a continuous variable, meaning that there are various degrees in the competency of the cervix. Furthermore, a certain degree of competency of the cervix can be expressed differently in subsequent pregnancies. Women with risk factors for cervical incompetence in their gynecological/obstetric history should be followed by transvaginal ultrasonography. History alone is not an indication for a prophylactic cerclage. Although transvaginal ultrasonography identifies women at high risk of preterm delivery, it does not discriminate between different underlying pathologies. Short cervical length alone is not an indication for a therapeutic cerclage. Serial transvaginal ultrasonographic measurements of cervical length in women with risk factors can identify those women truly at high risk of preterm delivery. A transvaginal cervical cerclage with bed rest reduces preterm delivery and improves perinatal outcome in women with a short cervical length and risk factors for cervical incompetence.en© 2002 Lippincott Williams & Wilkins, Inc.Cervix UteriHumansUltrasonographyBed RestCerclage, CervicalRisk FactorsPregnancyUterine Cervical IncompetenceFemaleObstetric Labor, PrematureCervical incompetence: A reappraisal of an obstetric controversyJournal article002002016110.1097/00006254-200206000-000230001766235000032-s2.0-003630512260579Dekker, G. [0000-0002-7362-6683]