Prophylactic cervical cerclage, fully embedded, for twin pregnancies following fertility treatment

Abstract

Purpose of Investigation:With the advent of fertility treatment the number of twin gestations has increased considerably. These pregnancies are associated with many maternal and perinatal complications, mainly due to prematurity. The aim of this study was to assess the effectiveness of a fully embedded prophylactic vaginal cervical cerclage in reducing the rate of prematurity in twin pregnancies following ART. Materials and Methods: A prophylactic vaginal cervical cerclage was applied in forty three twin pregnancies conceived following fertility treatments. The cerclage suture was fully embedded under the vaginal mucosa in order to minimize the risk of infection. Results: The mean gestational age at delivery was 35+4 weeks and the mean delivery weight was 2,238 grams. No differences between the type of fertility treatment used was noted in the outcome measures studied. Conclusion: Twin pregnancies conceived with the aid of fertility treatment, benefited from the application of a prophylactic vaginal cervical cerclage.