WHAT HAPPENS TO THE STITCH?

Q When I was 12 weeks pregnant I had to be stitched because of an incompetent cervix. I am now 26 weeks pregnant, but I would like to know if I will have normal signs of labour. What should I wait for?

A DR KOLL ANSWERS: The onset of labour will be much the same with or without a stitch. Contractions may start without the water breaking but more commonly with a stitch, the water breaks first. If contractions start or if the water breaks and the stitch is still in place, it is imperative that you get to hospital very urgently. If labour progresses with a stitch in place, severe complications can result. If all goes well with the pregnancy, and a vaginal birth is planned, the stitch will be removed between 36 and 38 weeks, and onset of labour should be normal. If for some reason an elective caesar is planned, the stitch will be removed at the time of the operation.