Q: I had a miscarriage in the 20th week of pregnancy. Till the 19th week all the reports were normal but suddenly the cervix opened and I had a premature delivery. Please suggest me when can I plan for the next pregnancy? The doctor advised me that in my next pregnancy in the 11 week, he will put stitches on the uterus. I also had a small uterus so please advise me what care I need to take in my next pregnancy and where can I get the surgery done? Right now I am abroad and plan to visit Delhi soon.

A:The condition is termed incompetent cervix. The stitch is usually put around 14 weeks and not 11 weeks. Also, you must have a hysterogram done (special Xray) before your next pregnancy to rule out any congenital abnormality in the uterine cavity. If there is some abnormality it needs to be corrected (depending upon the abnormality) before your next pregnancy- otherwise the stitch will not help. You can go to any of the 5 medical colleges in New Delhi - they have highly experienced faculty. Otherwise you can choose one of the major private hospitals.