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Loop diathermy treatment to the cervix – post procedure advice

Find out more about what things you should avoid doing and possible after effects.

Post procedure advice

  • AVOID strenuous activities for 2-3 weeks e.g. gym, power walking, horse riding,
    cycling, aerobic activity.
  • AVOID swimming for 4 weeks – or until discharge has stopped.
  • AVOID intercourse for 4 weeks.
  • AVOID using tampons for 4 weeks. Use sanitary pads instead.

Discharge – should decrease in about 10 days, but it can last up to 3 weeks.

Discomfort – please take Paracetamol or Ibuprofen if you need to, but AVOID any Aspirin
based products.

Bleeding and discharge – although rare, you may get bleeding after about 10 days which can
be due either to disturbing the scab that initially forms with healing, or due to infection. If you
get bleeding or offensive discharge you may need antibiotics. Please contact your GP for
this.

Excessive bleeding – if you are soaking pads or passing clots, please seek advice on one of
the numbers below. If you are bleeding heavily, please go to Accident and Emergency. Call
999 Ambulance, if you have any transport difficulties.

Results – you should receive a letter within 4 weeks with the results of your treatment and
advice about recommended follow up. If you do not receive a letter by then, please contact
the Colposcopy Secretary on the number below.

Contact Numbers

Colposcopy Clinic: 01494 425575 (between 8.00am-4.00pm Mon-Fri).
Please be aware that the Colposcopy Nurse may be in clinic and unable to speak to you. If
so, other staff will take a message and the nurse will call you back when available.

Colposcopy Secretary: (for result letters) 01494 425009

Colposcopy Co-ordinator: (to change your appointment) 01494 425920

Please Note:
This leaflet explains some of the most common side-effects that some people may
experience. However, it is not comprehensive. If you experience other side-effects and want
to ask anything else related to your treatment please speak to the Colposcopy Nurse.