The Use of Ultrasonography in Conservative Management of Cervical Pregnancy

Cervical pregnancy is defined as an implantation of a fertilized ovum in the cervical canal. It is a very rare and dangerous form of ectopic pregnancy. The incidence ranges from 1/2500 to 1/12,000 pregnancies, which accounts for approximately 0.15% of all ectopic pregnancies. Rapid crossing of the fertilized ovum through the endometrial cavity and the travel speed of the ovum could be the cause of cervical implantation. An unfertilized ovum may reach the cervical canal and implantation occurs. Although the etiology of cervical pregnancy is unclear, previous uterine procedures such as dilation and curettage (D & C) and cesarean section, pelvic inflammatory disease, use of an intrauterine device (IUD), and in vitro fertilization (IVF) are likely causative or contributing factors. Particularly, with the use of assisted reproductive technology in recent years, the incidence of cervical pregnancy is expected to rise.