In rare cases, preterm labor is due to inadequate connective tissue in the cervix, which allows the cervix to open too early. One option to treat this weak tissue is cervical cerclage. In this procedure, your doctor stitches a band of strong thread around your cervix to help hold it closed. You will be given anesthesia to numb the area or to put you asleep during this procedure. The band is removed at 37-38 weeks of pregnancy to allow for normal delivery.