Obstetrics and Gynecology - A. M. Hromova 2000

Birth injuries
Cervical lacerations

During childbirth, tears of the Perineum, vulva, Vagina, and cervix are quite common. Pathological labor may sometimes lead to hematomas, injuries to the pelvic joints, as well as urogenital and rectovaginal fistulas. The most dangerous complication that can occur during delivery is Uterine rupture.

Cervical tears most frequently occur on the left side, occasionally extending to the vaginal fornix and spreading onto it, and may even reach the parametrial tissue.

There are three degrees of cervical tears:

I - tear length up to 2 cm;

II - greater than 2 cm, but does not reach the fornix;

III - the tear reaches the fornix and extends onto it.

Cervical tears are diagnosed by inspecting the cervix using speculums. For this Procedure, the edge of the cervix is grasped with fenestrated forceps, pulled downward, and all its edges are systematically examined. In cases of third-degree cervical tears, a digital examination is performed to rule out a rupture of the lower uterine segment. Cervical tears are classified into spontaneous and violent (traumatic). Spontaneous tears occur due to cervical rigidity, excessive stretching of the os margins, or precipitous labor. Violent tears are caused by surgical interventions during delivery.

Treatment for cervical tears involves suturing the defect. Stitches are placed starting from the upper angle of the tear (the first suture is placed slightly above the tear site) down to the margin of the os, without penetrating the mucous membrane. Catgut is used for suturing cervical tears.



Last update: 08/08/2026

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