Interesting findings in cervical stitches research

A new study has suggested that the type of thread used in cervical stitches may affect the levels of risk to the baby.

Cervical stitches are often used to prevent miscarriage or premature birth on approximately 2 million women a year globally. Whilst the majority of surgeons use a thicker woven thread, approximately 20% use a thinner thread. It was this difference in thread that the researchers analysed.

In a study by Imperial College London, 671 UK women who received a cervical stitch were monitored. The results suggest an association between the use of thicker thread and an increased in the rate of babies dying in the womb. Those who received a stitch using thicker thread also had an increased risk of premature birth. This finding is thought to be the result of the thicker woven structure encouraging the growth of dangerous bacteria in the cervix.

Prior to any change in recommendations, a further study to compare the two types of thread is currently being conducted by the University of Birmingham.  But researchers are hopeful that if their findings are confirmed that a simple change in the stitch material could prevent around 170,000 premature births globally and 172,000 intrauterine baby deaths every year.

 
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