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Cryotherapy of the Cervix: Before Your Procedure

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Female pelvic organs

What is cryotherapy?

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.

How do you prepare for the procedure?

Procedures can be stressful. This information will help you understand what you can expect. And it will help you safely prepare for your procedure.

Preparing for the procedure

 
  • Tell your doctor if:
    • You are having your menstrual period. This procedure usually isn't done during your period. That's because blood cells make it harder for your doctor to see your cervix.
    • You are or might be pregnant. A blood or urine test may be done to see if you are pregnant.
    • You are allergic to any medicines.
    • You are being treated for a vaginal, cervical, or pelvic infection.
  • Understand exactly what procedure is planned, along with the risks, benefits, and other options.
  • If you take a medicine that prevents blood clots, your doctor may tell you to stop taking it before your procedure. Or your doctor may tell you to keep taking it. (These medicines include aspirin and other blood thinners.) Make sure that you understand exactly what your doctor wants you to do.
  • Tell your doctor ALL the medicines, vitamins, supplements, and herbal remedies you take. Some may increase the risk of problems during your procedure. Your doctor will tell you if you should stop taking any of them before the procedure and how soon to do it.
  • Make sure your doctor and the hospital have a copy of your advance directive. If you don't have one, you may want to prepare one. It lets others know your health care wishes. It's a good thing to have before any type of surgery or procedure.

What happens on the day of the procedure?

  • You may eat or drink as you normally do.
  • You may want to take a pain reliever, such as ibuprofen (Advil or Motrin), 30 to 60 minutes before you have the procedure.

At the doctor's office or clinic

  • Bring a picture ID.
  •  
    The procedure should take about 20 minutes.

When should you call your doctor?

  • You have questions or concerns.
  • You don't understand how to prepare for your procedure.
  • You become ill before the procedure (such as fever, flu, or a cold).
  • You need to reschedule or have changed your mind about having the procedure.

Where can you learn more?

Go to http://www.healthwise.net/patientEd

Enter D561 in the search box to learn more about "Cryotherapy of the Cervix: Before Your Procedure".

The Health Encyclopedia contains general health information. Not all treatments or services described are covered benefits for Kaiser Permanente members or offered as services by Kaiser Permanente. For a list of covered benefits, please refer to your Evidence of Coverage or Summary Plan Description. For recommended treatments, please consult with your health care provider.