Colposcopy
Colposcopy is a simple examination involving the use of an instrument called a Colposcope. The examination is to see if your cervix has any abnormal or pre-cancerous cells. The Colposcope gives the doctor a much better view of your cervix. The procedure is similar to having a cervical smear.

Loop Diathermy
When abnormal cells have been diagnosed in the cervix they need to be removed before they develop into cancer cells. This is carried out by removing the abnormal part normally found at the womb neck.

The Loop Diathermy is also known as Loop Excision of Transformation Zone (L.E.T.Z.). In application electricity is passed through a pad placed on your thigh, through the ‘loop’ instrument. The site of the abnormal cells is removed using the loop.

What is my cervix and where is it?
Your cervix is the opening of your uterus (womb) at the top end of your vagina. Your cervix is also known as the neck of your uterus (or womb).

What causes abnormal cells in my cervix?
The Human Papilloma Virus (H.P.V.) a transmittable virus through sexual contact between men and women and even via same sex female relationships. Only female who have never had sexual intercourse (virgins) are likely to be free from ever contracting the virus.

Can my cervix be restored to normal?
Yes it can, once any abnormal cells have been identified and removed. It should not affect any future pregnancies. If the cells have progressed to cancer cells then your gynaecologist will have a discussion with you and make certain recommendations.

What does the examination involve?

Colposcopy
There is no surgery involved in Colposcopy. The Colposcope isn’t actually inserted into your cervix, a speculum (spatula-type instrument) is used and the Colposcope acts like a magnifying glass. A little iodine or vinegar solution may be added to highlight abnormal cells which may be present. Please let medical staff know if you are allergic to iodine. Please note that iodine may stain your underwear. 

You may be able to see the inside of your cervix because the Colposcope can have a camera attached to it. You will be given an explanation of what you see as the examination progresses. If the Colposcope shows anything unusual a biopsy will be taken. A biopsy is where a little sample of tissue is taken for further and closer examination. The area may bleed a little afterwards and you may be given a local anaesthetic. There may be a bit of discomfort later.

Loop Diathermy
Diathermy is a procedure used to stop the bleeding from the affected area. The cervix is frozen by using local anaesthetic before applying iodine to make the affected area more visible.

If the area containing pre-cancerous cells is large, a Cone biopsy, which is another type of Loop Diathermy, will be performed under a light general anaesthetic. You will be treated as a day patient and released to go home the same day.

You may be given an antibiotic cream afterwards to apply, just once, to prevent infection.

The advantage of Loop Diathermy is that a hospital stay is not required. You can be treated as a day patient as a local anaesthetic may be given.   However, when dealing with larger areas, general anaesthetic may be recommended.

Will there be complications?

Colposcopy
There should be no complications with Colposcopy. If you happen to be pregnant a Colposcopy will not harm your baby and any treatment can wait until you have given birth.

Loop Diathermy
There is always the risk of infection as with any operation. Any heavy bleeds are unlikely to be your period.

The neck of your cervix may become narrow (cervical stenosis) or may not heal properly which may, in future, lead to miscarriages.

Loop Diathermy is not used if you have a uterine coil in place, if you are pregnant or if you are having your period at the time.

How long does the procedure take?
Loop diathermy can take up to 15 minutes to perform. Colposcopy should take around 20 minutes to carry out.

What will happen in the recovery period?

Colposcopy
There may be some after effects where you experience sensations similar to period pains after the examination. Sometimes, patients feel light-headed afterwards so you would be advised to make sure you have a meal with plenty of fluids beforehand.

Loop Diathermy
While the cervix heals up you may experience a brownish bloody discharge for approximately 2 to 6 weeks. The flow should decrease over the same time. Abdominal pain similar to period pain may also be a symptom for which your usual painkillers can be taken.

What is the recovery time?
You will be treated as a day patient and will be able to go home the same day. Recovery will take approximately three to six weeks for Colposcopy and Loop Diathermy treatment, respectively.

Colposcopy
If you have a biopsy the affected area needs to be able to heal properly.  The risk of infection will also need to be minimised so you are advised not to swim for approximately 3 weeks. Sexual intercourse should not take place either for the same length of time to allow complete healing. If you have your period during the recovery period you should use sanitary pads in place of tampons.

Loop diathermy
For up to 6 weeks you should avoid totally immersing yourself in water in order to help the cervix heal. Contact with water will slow down the healing process and may give rise to infection. This means use of baths, bidets, sexual intercourse and tampons must be stopped temporarily. Sanitary pads can be used instead of tampons.  Showers are permitted.

What can I expect from the surgery?
If pre-cancerous cells have been found and successfully treated with Loop Diathermy, you may need to have another Colposcopy examination. A smear test may also be needed to check that treatment has been completely successful. This takes place no less than six months after the first Colposcopy examination. If abnormal cells remain or reappear another biopsy will be required and your gynaecologist will discuss treatment with you.

Talk to us today
We are confident that our website presents a wide-ranging overview of the range of gynaecological procedures available to you, but if you require any further information or would like to arrange your consultation, contact us at any time on
08707 606 555, by e-mail, or by completing our online enquiry form for an immediate response.