Cryotherapy of the cervix: Overview
Cryotherapy destroys tissue in the cervix that is not normal.
Your doctor will put a tool called a speculum into your vagina. It opens your vagina a little bit. This lets your doctor see the cervix and inside the vagina. A special fluid may be put on your cervix to make the tissue easier to see.
Your doctor will freeze the tissue with a probe that can get very cold. You may have some cramps during the treatment.
You may have mild cramps for several hours after the procedure. You should be able to go back to your normal routine right away. Use a pad if you have any bleeding. You may have some watery vaginal discharge for 2 to 3 weeks.
Why is cryotherapy of the cervix done?
Cryotherapy may be done when abnormal Pap or human papillomavirus (HPV) test results have been confirmed by colposcopy. It can treat cell changes on the cervix. But it isn't done if results of endocervical curettage show abnormal tissue high inside the cervical canal.
How is cryotherapy of the cervix done?
Cryotherapy is usually done at your doctor's office, a clinic, or a hospital as an outpatient procedure. You don't have to spend a night in the hospital.
You will need to take off your clothes below the waist and drape a paper or cloth covering around your waist. You will then lie on your back on an exam table. Your feet will be supported by footrests. Your doctor will place a lubricated tool called a speculum into your vagina. The speculum opens the vagina a little bit. This lets your doctor see the cervix and inside the vagina.
A special fluid may be put on your cervix to make the tissue easier to see.
Your doctor will freeze the tissue with a probe that can get very cold. You may have some cramps during the treatment.
Your doctor may use medicine to numb the cervix (cervical block).
After cryotherapy of the cervix: When to call
Call 911 anytime you think you may need emergency care. For example, call if:
- You passed out (lost consciousness).
- You have chest pain, are short of breath, or cough up blood.
Call your doctor now or seek immediate medical care if:
- You have pain that does not get better after you take pain medicine.
- You cannot pass stools or gas.
- You have vaginal discharge that has increased in amount or smells bad.
- You are sick to your stomach or cannot drink fluids.
- You have signs of infection, such as:
- Increased pain, swelling, warmth, or redness.
- A fever.
- You have bright red vaginal bleeding that soaks one or more pads in an hour, or you have large clots.
- You have signs of a blood clot in your leg (called a deep vein thrombosis), such as:
- Pain in your calf, back of the knee, thigh, or groin.
- Redness or swelling in your leg.
Watch closely for any changes in your health, and be sure to contact your doctor if you have any problems.
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