Does a 1.6cm cervical canal require hospitalization

The length of the cervical canal is 1.6 centimeters, which is considered to be below the critical value. In most cases, hospitalization is not necessary, but a comprehensive evaluation based on gestational age and symptoms is needed. The main influencing factors include gestational age, presence of uterine contractions or bleeding, history of miscarriage, multiple pregnancies, and risk of infection.

1. Gestational stage:

If the length of the cervical canal is less than 2.5 centimeters before 24 weeks of pregnancy, it indicates an increased risk of premature birth, and 1.6 centimeters should be closely monitored during mid pregnancy. If it is a singleton pregnancy and there are no other high-risk factors, it is usually recommended to have outpatient follow-up and regularly check changes in cervical length through ultrasound. The clinical significance of cervical shortening after 28 weeks of pregnancy is relatively reduced.

2. Symptoms of uterine contractions:

When accompanied by frequent contractions of more than 4 times per hour or a feeling of sagging, a cervical length of 1.6 centimeters may require short-term hospitalization observation. The doctor will evaluate the intensity of uterine contractions through fetal heart monitoring, and if necessary, use uterine contraction inhibitors such as ritodrine hydrochloride. At the same time, cervical cerclage will be performed for evaluation.

3. Bleeding situation:

When vaginal bleeding or brown discharge occurs, the hospitalization indication is significantly enhanced. Bleeding may indicate placental abnormalities or cervical dysfunction, requiring hospitalization to rule out emergencies such as placental abruption. During hospitalization, absolute bed rest is required and infection indicators such as C-reactive protein and white blood cell count should be monitored.

4. Previous obstetric history:

Pregnant women with a history of late miscarriage or extremely premature birth and a cervical length of 1.6 cm are recommended for prophylactic hospitalization. The incidence of cervical incompetence in this population is as high as 30%. After hospitalization, emergency cervical cerclage or progesterone support treatment can be carried out, such as progesterone gel for vagina.

5. Multiple pregnancies:

When the cervix is shortened to 1.6 centimeters in twin pregnancies, hospitalization management is more proactive. The risk of premature birth in multiple pregnancies is 4-6 times higher than that in singleton pregnancies. During hospitalization, treatment with glucocorticoids to promote fetal lung maturation is necessary, and a neonatal rescue plan should be developed in advance.

It is recommended to maintain a daily water intake of at least 2000 milliliters and avoid lifting heavy objects and standing for long periods of time. Supplementing foods rich in omega-3 fatty acids, such as deep-sea fish, can help reduce inflammatory reactions. Monitor changes in fetal movement. If fetal movement is less than 3 times per hour or there is regular abdominal pain, immediately return to the hospital for follow-up examination. During sleep, adopt a left lateral position to improve uterine placental blood flow, and recheck cervical length every week until 34 weeks of pregnancy.