The cervical canal is part of the cervix, connecting the vagina and the uterine cavity. It looks like a small hole or a pharynx. The cervical canal is lined with a mucosa, the cells of which create a tight plug during pregnancy, which protects the placenta and the fetus from the penetration of various infections.
Its function is:
- allocation of blood during menstruation;
- reception of spermatozoa and ensuring their entry into the uterus for the purpose of fertilization of the oocyte .
Norm of cervical canal dimensions in pregnancy
The length of the cervical canal during pregnancy is up to 4 cm.
The dimensions of the cervical canal during pregnancy are determined during examination, as well as the performance of intravaginal ultrasound. In normal pregnancy, the external opening of the cervical canal is tightly closed due to the work of the cervical muscles, which helps the fetus to remain in the uterus.
When approaching the birth of the cervix begins to shorten and soften to facilitate the movement of the baby through the birth canal. Cervical canal, closed during pregnancy, begins to expand. With the onset of regular fights, it opens up more and more: at the beginning of 2-3 cm, and then to 8 cm. The degree of opening of the cervical canal during pregnancy helps obstetrician-gynecologists to determine the time remaining before the birth of the child. When the vagina and the uterus, which connects the cervical canal, which opens by 10 cm, create a single ancestral path, this indicates the complete opening of the cervix .
If, during pregnancy, the cervical canal is slit and enlarged above the norm, and there is still a lot of time left before delivery, this is a sign of a threat of premature termination of pregnancy. Most often, this situation can occur in the middle of pregnancy due to isthmico-cervical insufficiency.
Premature opening of the cervical canal is due to an increase in the size of the fetal egg, which exerts excessive pressure on the cervix, which leads to its further opening. This is also promoted by active fetal movements and prolific
If the diagnosis of Isthmico-cervical insufficiency in a woman is confirmed, the woman is usually asked to sew the cervix or put on the neck a ring that does not allow it to open.
In addition, a woman should limit physical activity and stop having sex.
If the woman's uterus is often in a tone, the doctor gives advice on how to reduce it. Preventive treatment in a hospital environment is also possible.