Intermediate
Technical
IVT
competent cervix
A cervix that maintains adequate closure throughout pregnancy, contrasted with cervical incompetence.
Full Definition
A competent cervix refers to the normal state where the cervix remains closed and maintains structural integrity throughout pregnancy until term labor begins. This is the expected physiological condition that prevents premature birth due to cervical insufficiency. In reproductive endocrinology contexts, cervical competence assessment is important when evaluating recurrent pregnancy loss or when planning procedures that might affect cervical integrity.
Usage
Usage note: The term 'competent cervix' is sometimes considered outdated, with 'cervical sufficiency' being the preferred current terminology.
In Context
- "Serial cervical length measurements confirmed a competent cervix throughout the pregnancy." — Obstetric monitoring report
- "The patient's history suggested a competent cervix with no prior episodes of cervical insufficiency." — Consultation note
Also known as
sufficient cervix
intact cervix
Contrasted with
incompetent cervix
cervical insufficiency
Don't confuse with
cervical stenosis
cervical incompetence