Cryosurgery or Cryotherapy

Cervical cryosurgery or cryotherapy is a gynecological treatment that freezes a section of the cervix. Cryosurgery of the cervix is most often done to destroy abnormal cervical cells that show changes that may lead to cancer. These changes are called pre cancerous cells. Dr. Rivera will probably use the term cervical dysplasia.

Cryosurgery is done only after a colposcopy confirms the presence of abnormal cervical cells. Cyrotherapy is also used for the treatment of cervicitis or inflammation of the cervix. Cryosurgery is not a treatment for cervical cancer.

Cryosurgery is performed in Dr. Rivera's office while you are awake. It is similar to a pelvic exam:

  • you will be asked to undress from the waist down
  • lie on an exam table with your feet in stirrups
  • a speculum is inserted into your vagina to hold the vaginal canal open so that your cervix can be seen
  • Cryotherapy uses special instruments called cryo probes.
  • During cryosurgery the cyro probes are inserted into your vagina until they firmly cover the abnormal areas of cervical tissue.
  • Next, liquid nitrogen begins to flow through the cryo probes at a temperature of approximately -50 degrees Celsius.
  • This causes the metal cryo probes to freeze and destroy superficial abnormal cervical tissue.
  • The most effective treatment result is obtained by freezing for three minutes, letting the cervix thaw, and repeating the treatment for three more minutes.
During Cryosurgery
  • You may feel some slight cramping
  • You may experience either a sensation of cold or heat

After Cryosurgery

You can return to most normal activities the day after cryosurgery; however, there are a few things you should take note:

It is normal to experience a watery discharge for the first few weeks. This is caused by the sloughing of dead cervical tissue.

Do not insert anything into the vagina for at least two to three weeks. This means no tampons, no douches, and no sexual intercourse.

Call Our Office if the following occurs:

  • Fever
  • Vaginal Bleeding heavier than normal
  • Pain - slight cramping is normal, however any severe or increasing pelvic pain
  • Foul Smell or yellowish vaginal discharge
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