The objective of this study was to determine whether estimates of ultrasonic attenuation could detect changes in the cervix associated with medically induced cervical remodeling. Thirty-six full term pregnant women underwent two transvaginal ultrasonic examinations separated in time by 12 hours to determine cervical attenuation, cervical length and changes thereof. Ultrasonic attenuation and cervical length data were acquired from a z.one (Zonare Medical Systems, Mountain View, CA. USA) ultrasound system using a 5–9 MHz endovaginal probe. Cervical attenuation and cervical length significantly decreased in the 12 hours between the pre-cervical ripening time point and 12 hours later. The mean cervical attenuation was 1.1±0.4 dB/cm-MHz before cervical ripening agents were used and 0.8±0.4 dB/cm-MHz 12 hours later, p < 0.0001. The mean cervical length also decreased from 3.1±0.9 cm before the cervical ripening was administered to 2.0±1.1 cm 12 hours later, p < 0.0001. Cervical attenuation and cervical length detected changes in cervical remodeling 12 hours after cervical ripening administration.

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