Complete Guide to Cervical Cerclage
Understanding cervical cerclage: when it is needed, how it is performed, and what to expect during recovery.
For patients with cervical insufficiency, whether identified during this pregnancy or following a history of loss, Mr Myriknas offers the full spectrum of cerclage procedures.
Mr Myriknas offers transvaginal cerclage (TVC), transabdominal cerclage (TAC), and emergency cerclage, tailored to your individual history and circumstances. Whether you are newly diagnosed, have experienced previous loss, or need a TAC because vaginal placement is no longer possible, he has the expertise to manage your case.
If you are unsure whether cerclage is right for you, a consultation is the right first step. Mr Myriknas will review your history, discuss your options honestly, and help you make a fully informed decision.
Most patients are able to go home the same day. Some light spotting or mild cramping in the first few days is normal. You will be advised to rest and avoid strenuous activity, and in most cases pelvic rest will be recommended for the remainder of the pregnancy. Mr Myriknas will give you clear, personalised guidance at your appointment and you will always have a point of contact if you have any concerns along the way.
A transvaginal cerclage is usually removed at around 36 to 37 weeks in a straightforward outpatient appointment that does not require anaesthetic. A transabdominal cerclage is permanent and is not removed; delivery is by planned caesarean section. If labour begins or your waters break before your planned removal date, contact your care team immediately.
Understanding cervical cerclage: when it is needed, how it is performed, and what to expect during recovery.
Mr Myriknas accepts referrals from GPs and consultant colleagues for cerclage assessment and management, including second-opinion consultations for complex cases, elective and emergency TVC, TAC, pre-pregnancy planning, and complete high-risk pregnancy management. Please contact the practice directly to discuss a referral.
Cervical cerclage is a surgical procedure where a stitch is placed around the cervix to help prevent premature birth or late miscarriage. It provides additional support when there is concern that the cervix might shorten or open too early during pregnancy.
There are three main types. Transvaginal cerclage (TVC) is the most common, placed through the vagina between 12 and 24 weeks. Transabdominal cerclage (TAC) is placed through a small abdominal incision for cases where vaginal placement is not suitable, either before pregnancy or in early pregnancy. Emergency cerclage is performed when cervical changes are detected during pregnancy and immediate intervention is needed.
Cerclage may be recommended if you have had a previous late miscarriage or premature birth, cervical trauma or surgery (such as LLETZ, cone biopsy, or trachelectomy), cervical shortening detected on ultrasound, an unsuccessful previous cerclage, or a diagnosis of cervical insufficiency. Each case is assessed individually at consultation.
All cerclage procedures are performed at The Kensington Wing and The Chelsea Wing, Chelsea and Westminster Hospital, London, a specialist high-risk maternity unit with comprehensive facilities.
Success depends on the type of procedure, timing, and individual circumstances. During your consultation, Mr Myriknas will discuss realistic expectations based on your specific situation and the current evidence. Many patients with a history of loss have gone on to deliver healthy, full-term babies under his care.
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recently
Dr Myriknas placed my Transabdominal Cerclage in 2020 - due to being diagnosed with an incompetent cervix and suffering a preterm and neonatal loss. The cerclage placed by Dr Myriknas allowed me to confidently deliver three healthy and happy term babies! I am so grateful to also have had Dr Myriknas deliver two out of three of my TAC pregnancies - he is such a compassionate, skilful and dedicated doctor who provides the best care possible. I couldn't be more thankful to have received such a high level of care and will always recommend Dr Myriknas to anyone looking for a great and personable doctor in pregnancy.
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recently
Stelios is the most wonderful doctor. After being left with very little cervix post LLETZ, Stelios' care and expertise guided me through my cerclage surgery (TAC) and two subsequent pregnancies, in-pregnancy cerclages and C-sections. I cannot speak highly enough of Stelios - he is so kind, calm, patient, thorough, so knowledgeable and without his care our two TAC babies wouldn't be here and we are forever grateful to him.
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recently
I had a lovely experience with Stelios, from my initial consultation to procedure he listened to my concerns and created the right plan for me and baby. He explained everything clearly, made me feel at ease, and handled my care with great skill and compassion. I felt supported and confident every step of the way. I highly recommend Stelios to anyone in need of cervical cerclage or specialist maternity care.
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recently
I found Dr Stelios via a Facebook group after going through some issues with an incompetent cervix. I met with him at Chelsea hospital and his warm friendly personality really put me at ease. I was booked in for a transabdominal cerclage procedure with him shortly after, and he delivered my first baby by C-section. I then revisited just under two years later for my second C-section. He was always very patient, kind and knowledgeable as well as completely professional and I felt very safe in his hands.
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I had both pregnancies (2021 and 2024) managed under Mr Stelios. The doctor is so professional and full of experience. He is very patient and pays attention to detail. I had my transabdominal cerclage and pregnancies managed perfectly under his care. Dr Stelios is not only great at his job but his level of competence in the gynaecology field is unmatched. Without hesitation, I highly recommend him.
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I had a transabdominal cerclage procedure performed by another consultant due to cervical weakness. At the time Stelios provided me with his contact details and informed me that when I fell pregnant I should reach out to him to ensure a smooth pregnancy. A year later, I reached out and from 6 weeks when I found out, he offered the greatest care - from prescribing progesterone to performing the occlusion stitch procedure at 12 weeks and regularly checking in throughout. I was very grateful for all his advice and his calm nature. I felt reassured throughout and confident that I was in good hands. I would certainly recommend Stelios.
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I had my TAC stitch placed by the wonderful Mr Stelios at Chelsea and Westminster Hospital in May 2021, following a self‑referral I made the previous December. From the very beginning, Mr Stelios was exceptional. He explained every aspect of the procedure, including all risks and next steps, with such clarity and compassion. During the surgery, he also removed some scarring from my uterus. What truly set him apart was how far he went beyond his formal responsibilities. He personally communicated with my IVF consultant at another hospital to discuss the potential risks of a twin pregnancy, ensuring that every decision was made with my safety in mind. Thanks to IVF, I became pregnant with my daughter in October 2022. Mr Stelios also fitted my occlusion stitch after my 12‑week scan and continued as my consultant throughout the pregnancy, right up to the successful delivery of my daughter in June 2023. He is an incredibly talented surgeon, a brilliant communicator, and genuinely an angel for anyone facing infertility challenges. If it weren’t for him, we would not have become parents.
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recently
An absolutely amazing man. After the loss of my baby, he performed my TAC surgery and made me feel completely at ease during such a difficult time. Thanks to his skill and compassion, I’ve since gone on to have two beautiful babies. I couldn’t be more grateful.
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recently
I cannot recommend Dr. Stelios highly enough. I commuted all the way from Manchester to see him, and it was absolutely worth it. He is incredibly caring, with excellent surgical skills that immediately put me at ease. Throughout my procedure, he made sure I was comfortable and informed, and he continued to check on me throughout my pregnancy-even though I was living in a different city at the time. Dr. Stelios is always available for advice, very straightforward, and genuinely listens to and respects your opinions. His dedication and compassion are truly rare. I am so grateful to have found a doctor who genuinely cares, and I will definitely return to him for any future pregnancies.
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Stelios has been brilliant when he has operated on me twice for a cervical suture. first class service
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I had the pleasure of being Stelios's patient on two occasions to help save my pregnancies. Stelios was very thorough in his explanations of the procedure and his care both during and after the procedure was excellent. I would have no hesitation in recommending Stelios. He is a wonderful consultant.
I was cared for by Mr Myriknas for my transabdominal cerclage (TAC) surgery in 2020 (I'd had a radical trachelectomy in 2010), and again under his care throughout my successful pregnancy in 2023. His support was exceptional: he was always kind, patient, and clear in explaining every step, and he responded promptly to any questions I had, even after the birth when I reached out with other questions. His calm, thoughtful approach made a complex and anxious journey feel manageable, and I'm genuinely grateful for the care he provided.
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recently
Stelios was professional, caring and listened. Which are important qualities to have. Was there when needed advice via email and offered to do a phonecall. Felt heard as a person but most importantly as a mum, a bereaved mum.
I went for an open trans abdominal cerclage with dr stelios and nick wales. He was absolutely brilliant. I travelled all the way from Birmingham to London.
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