Which risk factor is associated with mechanical dilation of the cervix during pregnancy termination?

Mechanical dilation of the cervix during pregnancy termination is significantly influenced by prior surgical trauma to the cervix, such as that caused by conization. Conization is a surgical procedure in which a cone-shaped piece of tissue is removed from the cervix, typically to treat cervical dysplasia. This procedure can lead to scarring and changes in the cervical tissue that may result in cervical incompetence or a weaker cervical structure, making it more susceptible to dilation.

When a woman with a history of cervical conization undergoes a procedure like dilation and curettage (D&C) for pregnancy termination, the likelihood of encountering mechanical complications, such as difficulty in dilation or increased risk of cervical injury, rises due to the structural changes from the previous surgery. Thus, women with a history of conization can present with more challenging mechanical dilation needs, making this a critical risk factor.

The other options do not have a direct correlation with mechanical dilation during pregnancy termination. While cervical tears from delivery can impact subsequent pregnancies, they do not necessarily lead to specific complications regarding dilation during a termination procedure. Multiple prior pregnancies may actually result in cervical changes but typically do not increase the risk of mechanical dilation challenges compared to surgical trauma. Preeclampsia, while a serious condition,