Cryotherapy is an office procedure that is used to destroys abnormal cells on the cervix by freezing it. After this procedure as a part of healing normal cells on the cervix will grow back over the next 6 to 8 weeks. This procedure is used as an alternative to leep procedure for some patients after the abnormal cells have been confirmed by colposcopy. It is not recommended for patients with severe or high grade dysplasia. Dr. Imtiaz will discuss this option and alternatives with you during a consultation.
During this procedure liquid nitrogen is used to freeze the cells on the cervix. The cold temperature works like anesthesia and most patients do not report any discomfort. You may feel sensation of cold and some cramping, however, you do not need any anesthesia for this procedure. Sometimes repeat treatments of cryotherapy may be necessary to remove all abnormal tissue.
How To Prepare For Cryotherapy
We will ask you to take 800 mg. of ibuprofen or Motrin the evening prior to your appointment, and again every 8 hours prior to your appointment time the day of your procedure to help with any possible cramping you might have with the cryotherapy.
What To Expect After This procedure
Most women are able to return to their normal activity level the day after the cryotherapy procedure.
After cryotherapy
A watery vaginal discharge will occur for about 3 weeks.
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You may have some spotting for the first 2 to 3 days after the procedure. |
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Sanitary napkins should be used instead of tampons for 2 weeks – you will probably need to change these 6 to 8 times per day. |
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Sexual intercourse should be avoided for 2 weeks to prevent infections and bleeding. |
Douching should not be done for 2 weeks for the same reasons.
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Your first period after the treatment will probably be heavier than normal as the watery discharge may mix with your normal menstrual flow. |
When to call your Doctor
Call your Doctor if you have any of the following symptoms:
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A fever |
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Moderate to heavy bleeding after the first three days (more than you would usually have during a menstrual period) |
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Increasing pelvic pain |
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Bad-smelling or yellowish vaginal discharge, which may indicate an infection |
After Care Instructions
You will need regular follow-up pelvic exams after you have cryotherapy. Your first follow-up examination will include a Pap smear and will be scheduled in three months. If this first pap smear is normal, then they will be repeated every three months for one year and every six months the second year if each pap smear test is normal. After this 2 year schedule yearly pap smears are again recommended.
KEEPING YOUR FOLLOW -UP APPOINTMENTS IS THE MOST IMPORTANT PART OF YOUR CARE