Outcomes of ultrasound and physical-exam based cerclage: assessment of risk factors and the role of adjunctive progesterone in preventing preterm birth—a retrospective cohort study

Objective To assess outcomes of ultrasound and physical examination-based cerclage performed at mid to late second trimester and to assess the potential added value of progesterone treatment combined with cerclage for preventing preterm birth. Study design A retrospective cohort study of women who underwent cerclage in a university-affiliated tertiary medical center (2012–2018). Inclusion criteria included only ultrasound-based cerclage and physical examination-based cerclage. Women who underwent history-based cerclage or multiple gestations were excluded. Study groups were stratified by previous PTB