Cervical transparency measurements are an essential aspect of prenatal care. It aids in the prediction of preterm labor because cervical transparency is associated with cervical shortening.

Patients who are at high risk of preterm birth may benefit from cervical transparency measurement because it may be used as an early warning symptom. Cervical transparency is a crucial knowledge point that every obstetrician-gynecologist should have.

What are Cervical Transparency Values?

Cervical transparency values are a measurement of the degree to which light passes through the cervix. The transvaginal probe’s ultrasound transducer is used in cervical transparency measurements.

The degree to which light passes through the cervical tissue is assessed using this probe.

The cervix is a small, tubular structure that connects the uterus to the vagina. Cervical transparency measurements assist in determining cervical length and the presence of any cervical shortening.

Cervical shortening is a significant risk factor for preterm labor. Therefore, cervical transparency measurement plays a crucial role in preterm labor prevention management.

Standard Cervical Transparency Values:

The standard cervical transparency values for a non-pregnant and non-lactating woman are blank and hypoechoic (dark). A cervical transparency value of 30% or higher is considered normal for a pregnant woman.

A value of less than 30% indicates a high risk of preterm birth.

Cervical transparency values aren’t measured alone. The gestational age of the patient, cervical length, and other factors are considered in the interpretation.

Cervical Length Measurements:

Cervical length measurements are often used in conjunction with cervical transparency measurements to detect preterm labor risk.

Cervical length measurements are taken using the transvaginal probe’s ultrasound transducer, identical to cervical transparency measurements.

A short cervix, defined as less than 2.5 centimeters in length, is a significant cause for concern for preterm delivery. The risk of preterm delivery rises as cervical length gets shorter.

Related Article Typical cervical transparency levels

When are Cervical Transparency Values Measured?

Cervical transparency measurements may be performed at any time during pregnancy. However, it is most commonly done between 18 and 24 weeks, either singularly or in conjunction with cervical length measurement.

This is because preterm labor is most likely to begin between 20 and 37 weeks of gestation.

How is Cervical Transparency Measured?

The transvaginal probe’s ultrasound transducer is used to evaluate cervical transparency. A gel-like substance may be applied to the transducer to provide a clearer view of the cervical tissue.

The patient may be asked to empty her bladder before the procedure. The transvaginal probe is then inserted into the vagina and moved through the cervix until the cervical transparency area is visible.

A photometer is used to measure the quantity of light that passes through the cervical tissue.

The Deformation Score:

Another parameter that is commonly discussed in addition to standard cervical transparency values is the deformation score. It is used to detect cervical changes during pregnancy.

The deformation score is a measurement of the rate and consistency of change in the cervix, which can indicate cervical shortening or other cervical issues.

It assesses the cervical tissue’s elasticity and is expressed as a ratio of strain percentage to maximum strain.

Conclusion:

Cervical transparency measurement is an essential aspect of prenatal care. It can aid in the prediction of preterm labor, which is critical for high-risk pregnancies.

Cervical transparency values, combined with cervical length and deformation score measurements, provide a more comprehensive understanding of the cervical status.

Regular cervical transparency measurements are recommended for patients at risk of preterm delivery, including those with a history of preterm labor or cervical issues.

It is also beneficial for pregnant women to receive prenatal care, including cervical transparency measurements, to ensure a safe and healthy pregnancy.