Day theatre procedureAbout this service
Cervical cerclage, often called a McDonald stitch, places a stitch around the cervix during pregnancy in Windhoek at Eastgate Clinic's on-site day theatre to help prevent premature labour. This procedure is generally recommended when the cervix shows signs of weakening or shortening earlier than it should during pregnancy, which can increase the risk of miscarriage or early labour. By reinforcing the cervix with a stitch, the aim is to help support the pregnancy until closer to full term, at which point the stitch is removed.
It is performed under anaesthesia, and your obstetrician will monitor your pregnancy closely both before and after the procedure. Timing of the cerclage depends on your individual pregnancy history and current findings.
What to expect
- Your obstetrician assesses your cervix and pregnancy history to confirm cerclage is appropriate.
- The procedure is performed under anaesthesia, so it is not painful at the time.
- It is typically a relatively quick procedure.
- You are monitored afterwards, with the stitch usually removed later in pregnancy as your obstetrician advises.
Who is it for?
You may be advised to have this if you are dealing with:
- A short or weakening cervix identified on scan
- A history of premature labour or late miscarriage
- An obstetrician has recommended cerclage for this pregnancy
- Concerns about cervical weakness raised during antenatal care
Frequently asked questions
Is cervical cerclage painful?
The procedure is done under anaesthesia, so you will not feel it at the time. Some mild cramping afterwards is normal.
Do I need a referral for cervical cerclage in Windhoek?
This is arranged by your obstetrician as part of your antenatal care if it is recommended for your pregnancy.
When is the stitch removed?
This is usually done later in pregnancy, closer to term, and your obstetrician will confirm timing based on your progress.
For referring doctors
Referring obstetricians can book cervical cerclage procedures through Eastgate Clinic's on-site day theatre in Windhoek, with anaesthetist support provided. Contact us to arrange a suitable date within the pregnancy timeline.
Day theatre information for doctors