Shorter cervix at 12 weeks

[AprilBaby2025]

I am currently 16 weeks pregnant. I got a scan at 12 weeks. My cervix was 3.3-3.4cm. I also had a scan at 8 weeks where my cervix was 3.2-3.3cm.

My cervical length was never mentioned to me by my GP or midwife. I just started worrying after googling it. It seems quite short and should be above 4cm at that stage.

I am really scared. I do have OCD and anxiety which is severe. I will ask my midwife about the cervix at my next appointment in 2 weeks.

I never had a procedure or trauma to that area.

What do you think about this length? Is it concerning?

I had a shortening cervix in my first pregnancy and was under the consultant because of it, it shortened to 2.4 and I had a leak of my hind waters. In my second pregnancy I was monitored from 12 weeks and was 3.4cm, the consultant was happy with that measurement and said it was well within the normal range. I didn't have any issues with it that time. The first time was due to having Lletz for an abnormal smear nine months previously.

Below 25mm is the length the NHS are concerned about, I've had several length scans and mine is now below 25mm so I am currently on progesterone to help. I honestly don't think it's something to worry about unless there is a reason, it's not routinely checked if you haven't had previous trauma/issues with cervix.

@annlee3817 sorry to jump on, I’m currently 16 weeks with my 2nd and had my first cervical length scan yesterday. Interestingly I had the same as you with my first - cervix on the shorter side after LETZ a few years before, but never below 2.5, however I was given progesterone pessaries as a preventative. At 33 weeks my hind waters started leaking, which then led to me being induced at 37 weeks.

Has anyone ever connected the two issues with you? As in the shorter cervix and hind waters leaking? I was told it was just one of those random things and no reason behind it, therefore very unlikely to happen this time around again x

Hi,
The hind water leak I think was just one of those things, I also had progesterone pessaries and steroids injections, was signed off at 31 weeks as she was fully engaged and my cervix was soft, but she stayed put until 40+5.

Second pregnancy was 7 years later, I was monitored because of the first, was a much smoother pregnancy, had progesterone 2 times a day as a just in case, but none of the same issues. She was evicted at 39 weeks due to my age. Hope all goes well with your pregnancy