Procedure prep
Fasting Before a Cervical Cerclage
A cervical cerclage is a short procedure where a doctor places a strong stitch around the neck of your womb (cervix) to help keep it closed during pregnancy. It's usually quick, and most people go home the same day or after a short rest.
Fasting for this procedure
→ Get your exact fasting times with the calculator
Medicines to check
- Blood thinners (aspirin, clopidogrel, warfarin, Eliquis, Xarelto) — these matter for a spinal. See medications to stop.
- Progesterone or other pregnancy medicines — ask whether to take them as usual on the day.
- Diabetes medicines & insulin — they need a plan. See diabetes tablets.
- Blood pressure medicines — confirm which to take with a sip of water.
- Iron tablets and pregnancy vitamins — usually fine, but check the timing with your team.
When this surgery may be delayed
- Fever, a new cough or cold, or a chest infection
- Vomiting or diarrhea
- Signs of active labour, strong contractions, or your waters breaking
- A vaginal infection or new heavy bleeding
- Leaking fluid or any concern about the pregnancy that day
Reports & documents to carry
- Photo ID and insurance or hospital paperwork
- Your pregnancy notes, maternity book, or any referral letter
- A list of all medicines and supplements you take
- Recent ultrasound scans or reports of the pregnancy
- A responsible adult to take you home, especially after a spinal or general anesthetic
What to ask your anesthesia team
- Will I have a spinal or a general anesthetic, and will I be awake?
- Which of my medicines should I take or hold on the morning of the procedure?
- When exactly should I stop eating and drinking before my arrival time?
- Will I go home the same day, and do I need someone to drive me?
- How much rest do I need afterwards, and what activity should I avoid?
Your prep checklist
Tick things off as you sort them — saved on this device only, nothing is sent anywhere.
A general guide — your hospital's own instructions always come first.
Frequently asked questions
Will my baby be safe during the cervical stitch?
Cervical cerclage is a routine procedure designed to protect your pregnancy by helping keep the cervix closed. With a spinal anesthetic you stay awake and the medicine works low down, so very little reaches your baby. Your team will monitor you both and talk you through anything you're worried about beforehand.
Will I be awake during the procedure?
Usually yes. Most cervical stitches are placed under spinal anesthesia, so you're numb from the waist down but awake and comfortable. You won't feel pain, though you may feel some pressure or movement. If a general anesthetic is recommended instead, your team will explain why.
Why do I have to lie tilted to one side?
In later pregnancy, lying flat on your back can let the womb press on a large blood vessel and lower your blood pressure. Tilting you slightly to the left keeps blood flowing well to you and your baby. It's a normal, comfortable part of the setup, and your team will position you.
Do I really need to fast even though it's a quick procedure?
Yes. Even short procedures need an empty stomach, because anesthesia can make stomach contents come up, and pregnancy slows stomach emptying, which raises that risk. Following the 8-hour solids, 6-hour light meal, and 2-hour clear fluids rule keeps you safe. Always use the exact times your team gives you.