Cryotherapy
What is cryotherapy?
- It is a freezing procedure that destroys abnormal cells.
- In about 6 or 8 weeks, healthy cells will replace those that were frozen and destroyed.
- Cryotherapy is often done after cervical dysplasia is diagnosed, as well as for other reasons.
How is cryotherapy done?
- A plastic speculum will be put into your vagina. This is so the doctor can see your cervix.
- A round metal probe is gently put on the cervix.
- You will hear a soft hissing sound caused by a special gas circulating in the probe. This gas provides the freezing temperatures.
- This takes about 5 to 10 minutes.
What will I feel?
You may have a dull cramping sensation similar to menstrual cramps. These will go away in 10 to 15 minutes. Some women may have mild cramping throughout the day.
Take over-the-counter medicines to lessen cramping. Follow your provider’s instructions or as the package directs.
What should I expect after cryotherapy?
Do not have sex, use tampons or douche for at least 2 weeks or until the watery discharge stops. This is to lower your risk of infection and bleeding.
You may have some bleeding for 24 hours after cryotherapy. Then you may have spotting up to 2 weeks afterwards.
You will have a large amount of watery vaginal discharge for at least 2 to 3 weeks.
- You may need to change pads up to 6 or 8 times a day at first.
- Your next period may be somewhat heavier because the watery discharge mixes with the menstrual flow.
In most cases, the cervix heals and will be covered by normal cells within 8 weeks.
Call your provider's office if you have any fever, pain after treatment, or foul-smelling discharge.
Follow-up
You should have follow up Pap smears if cryotherapy was done for cervical dysplasia.
You need to keep your appointments. This is important to your care.
Last reviewed
May 2020