A New Beginning: Preparing for My Transabdominal Cerclage (TAC)
I am so excited to announce that I will be having my Transabdominal Cerclage (TAC) surgery in February. For women who have an incompetent cervix (IC), this may be your calling—your sign to keep going and explore all of your options. I first learned about this surgery by joining a Facebook group called AbbyLoopers, a community filled with women who have experienced one or more losses due to IC. Finding this group reminded me that I am not alone and that hope still exists.
“Plans fail for lack of counsel, but with many advisers they succeed.” — Proverbs 20:18
What Is a TAC?
What is a TAC, and how is it different from a Transvaginal Cerclage (TVC)?
For those who may not know, a cerclage is a band that is stitched around the cervix to help keep it closed throughout pregnancy. A TVC is placed vaginally and is typically given to women during pregnancy, usually between 12–16 weeks.
A TAC, on the other hand, is placed higher on the cervix through abdominal surgery. A TAC can be placed before pregnancy or during pregnancy, and a pre-pregnancy TAC can be done as early as 90 days (12 weeks) after a loss. For women whose cervixes cannot support a pregnancy with a traditional TVC, a TAC can be a life-changing option.
“The Lord will fulfill His purpose for me.” — Psalm 138:8
After experiencing a miscarriage at 8 weeks in 2013, my second pregnancy—with my son—was filled with anxiety in the beginning because I never knew what to expect. Once I finally allowed myself to relax and enjoy the pregnancy, everything seemed to be going well. It wasn’t until 19 weeks that I found out my cervix was shortening. Up until that point, my pregnancy had been completely uneventful, and I truly believed I was in the clear.
Unfortunately, my rescue TVC failed at 19 weeks and 4 days.
Now, as I prepare for my TAC surgery in February, I feel hopeful. I am excited to begin this new chapter and to start my journey toward becoming a parent again. The next time we get pregnant, I am choosing to do my best to remain as stress-free as possible—trusting God fully with what I cannot control.
“Cast all your anxiety on Him because He cares for you.” — 1 Peter 5:7
I am learning to truly let go and let God.
With love,
Morgan Goodwin
