A dilation and curettage (D&C) is a safe, minor surgical procedure in which the cervix is dilated so that tissue can be removed from inside the uterus by scraping or suction.

A D&C may be recommended to remove endometrial polyps or fibroids, or in cases of hyperplasia (excessive cellular growth).

It is also a common treatment for a missed miscarriage. Also known as a “silent miscarriage,” a missed miscarriage refers to a miscarriage that typically occurs in the first trimester but without any of the usual signs or symptoms.

Placental or embryonic tissue remains in the uterus, although the embryo died or failed to form in the first place. In this case (or when a miscarriage is incomplete), surgical treatment such as a D&C may be necessary. Many women are able to have successful pregnancies after a missed miscarriage.

An intrauterine device (IUD) is an effective and convenient form of long-term birth control method. The IUD itself is a small, T-shaped device inserted into the uterus, and it releases small amounts of the hormone progestin into the body for about 5 years, depending on the type of IUD selected, as an additional safeguard against pregnancy. As a method of birth control, it is considered an entirely reversible procedure: a woman can try to conceive once the IUD is removed.

Patients of Dr. Tsyba’s may elect to have an IUD insertion or removal while under anesthesia.

Although often considered a cosmetic surgery, labiaplasty can provide medical benefits as well. In this procedure, Dr. Tsyba will surgically alter the folds of skin (lips) on the outside of the vagina.

Labiaplasty may be performed to improve the appearance of the lips themselves or to reduce irritation or discomfort during sex or exercise (as can happen when the skin sags in this area such as after childbirth).

LEEP is considered a treatment for cervical cancer and pre-cancerous conditions. In this procedure, a wire loop heated by a low-voltage electrical current is used to remove abnormal cells from the cervix.

Dr. Tsyba may perform a LEEP if abnormal cervical tissue is identified after a Pap smear or biopsy. You will be given a sedative and may feel only minor discomfort during the procedure.

Marsupialization is a surgical procedure used to treat cysts that can form near the vaginal opening. These fluid-filled swellings are called Bartholin’s cysts and may be treated in a number of ways, including antibiotics, sitz baths, catheter placement, and excision.

The most common surgical treatment of Bartholin’s cysts is marsupialization. This technique involves cutting a slit into the cyst and suturing its edges, allowing the cyst to become an open pouch of sorts, so that it can drain freely.

Left untreated, Bartholin’s cysts can lead to abscess and a risk of sepsis, a life-threatening condition.