SMFM Statement: The role of cervical pessary placement to prevent preterm birth in clinical practice

There has been renewed interest in the use of the cervical pessary as an intervention to prevent preterm birth (PTB) in women at high-risk for preterm birth. Multiple randomized clinical trials (RCTs) have been published in the last several years, with conflicting results. 

The purpose of this statement is to summarize the findings of recent RCTs studying the use of the cervical pessary to prevent PTB and to provide guidance regarding the role of cervical pessary use in clinical practice.

Last Reaffirmed: Aug 1, 2019