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Treatment of cervical ectropion
cervical ectropion · cervical erosion · cervical ectropion treatment · cervical cautery · cryotherapy of the cervix
The doctor treats a changed area on the cervix with radiofrequency, laser, cold, or a special solution. Healthy tissue grows back in its place.
When the changed area bleeds, bothers you, or your doctor sees a reason after smear tests and colposcopy. Not every ectropion needs treatment.
⏱ Duration: the procedure usually takes 10 to 20 minutes; healing usually takes 3 to 6 weeks
Be sure to tell your doctor
How to prepare
- Tests. Before treatment, you usually have a Pap smear, a swab for infections, and a colposcopy.
- Cycle day. It is usually done in the first days after your period ends. Check with your doctor.
- Infections. If the swab shows inflammation, it is treated first.
What to bring
- Your referral
- Smear and colposcopy results
- Pads
- Your ID
How it goes
- You sit in the gynecological chair
- The doctor inserts a speculum and looks at the cervix
- Sometimes the cervix is numbed
- The doctor treats the area. It takes a few minutes
- The speculum is removed, and you can get dressed
What you'll feel
- Period-like cramping during the procedure
- Sometimes warmth or cold low in the belly
- Afterward, mild cramps for a couple of hours
Afterwards
- Watery or bloody discharge usually lasts 1 to 3 weeks
- No sex, tampons, baths, pools, or saunas, usually for about 4 weeks. Your doctor will say exactly
- A follow-up exam after 4 to 6 weeks
Contact a doctor straight away if
- Bleeding like a heavy period: see a doctor urgently
- A fever over 38°C (100.4°F), severe pain, or bad-smelling discharge
Common questions
Does an ectropion always need treatment?
Not always. If your smears are normal and nothing bothers you, your doctor may simply watch it.
Can it be treated if I have not given birth?
Yes. Gentle methods are used today. Your doctor will choose the right one.
Does it hurt?
Usually like period cramps. It lasts a few minutes.