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Cervical vaporization
Last reviewed: 06.07.2025

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Vaporization of the cervix is a method of treating cervical pathology, which is widely used in gynecology as a minimally invasive, but at the same time effective method of treatment. This method was discovered not so long ago, and its scope of application increases every year, as the technology and methods of its use are improved. This method is fast, effective and can be recommended to women of any age group, which contributes to its widespread use.
Indications and technique for performing vaporization of the cervix
Firstly, to carry out this treatment, it is necessary to establish an accurate diagnosis. Before deciding on such an intervention, it is necessary to undergo a comprehensive examination by a doctor using instrumental and laboratory research methods. To begin with, it is necessary to undergo a colposcopy, which allows you to accurately visualize the changes that will need to be removed, as well as the presence of concomitant pathologies. It is necessary to conduct a differential diagnosis of diseases, if necessary, a histological examination to prevent complications. Preparation for vaporization of the cervix should also include a study of the microflora of the internal genital organs with the identification of possible pathogenic microorganisms that can cause a postoperative infectious complication. Therefore, in some cases, it is even recommended to carry out local preventive treatment with a combined antibacterial drug in the form of suppositories before the procedure. It is very important that the vaporization procedure itself is carried out on the eighth or ninth day of the menstrual cycle, since then the changes and proliferative function of the cells of the cervix are most pronounced.
Indications for such a procedure are:
- Cervical metaplasia grade I, and in some cases grade II.
- True erosion of the cervix.
- Background pathologies in the form of leukoplakia without cell atypia.
- Minor postoperative traumatic defects of the cervix.
- Small cervical cysts.
- Endometriosis foci or small endometrioid cysts in the cervix.
- Cervical polyps, multiple or single.
These are the main indications for vaporization, but in each case the tactics are decided individually, and there may also be other indications for this procedure.
It should be said that there is laser vaporization and radio wave. These methods are slightly different from each other. Laser vaporization of the cervix is an electrosurgical method of treatment, which consists of the targeted action of a laser beam on the pathological focus of cells, and under the influence of this beam, mechanical energy is converted into thermal energy and strongly heats the cells. As a result of this process, pathological cells evaporate - vaporization. Radio wave vaporization of the cervix works on the same principle, only here the energy of radio waves is used. The further mechanism of reparation is that the healing of the mucous membrane defect that formed after vaporization occurs due to normal cells, and the smaller the defect, the better and faster the healing occurs. It is believed that the laser has a higher separation ability, so it leaves a smaller defect. The procedure itself takes a little time - 15-20 minutes, which allows the patient to go home immediately after such treatment. As for the technique, it is quite simple - a special sensor is inserted into the uterine cavity and a beam is directed, which produces the main effect, then if there are no complications, then after the procedure you can go home with a follow-up consultation in two weeks.
Consequences and complications after vaporization of the cervix
Complications after such a procedure do not occur often, but it should be remembered that they can occur and prevent them or tell the patient about it, since after this procedure the woman is sent home. One of the consequences of such a procedure is bleeding. This occurs due to injury to small vessels of the mucous membrane during vaporization, which can be accompanied by bleeding, but, as a rule, it is insignificant. Since this vaporization is a superficial process, large vessels are rarely damaged and late complications in the form of massive bleeding are not typical. If there is bleeding after vaporization of the cervix, then it is necessary to consult a doctor, since there may be remnants of the pathological process with their incomplete removal. This requires revision of the cavity of the cervical canal and uterus.
Another consequence of such a procedure may be stenosis of the cervical canal of the cervix, especially when the procedure is performed in the area of the external os of the cervix. Such narrowing may be clinically insignificant, but if it is of significant size, then bougienage of the cervical canal may be required in the future. Such narrowing occurs due to a large defect of the mucous membrane, which after healing forms a scar, which contributes to the narrowing of the lumen. Therefore, it is very important that the vaporization process be on a minimal area of the mucous membrane for less trauma to the uterine structures.
Discharge after vaporization of the cervix can also be one of the consequences that occurs due to infection of the cervical cavity or due to increased secretion of glands during their intensive proliferation. If the discharge is mucous, light in small quantities, then you should not worry, since this is a normal phenomenon of such an intervention associated with active proliferation and secretion of cells at the site of the defect formed. In the case of green purulent discharge with an unpleasant odor, you must consult a doctor to treat the infectious process.
The rehabilitation period lasts two weeks, until the next menstruation, when all the products of cellular activity are released with menstruation. During this time, complete epithelialization and regeneration occurs, which allows new cells to function normally. During the rehabilitation period, it is recommended not to have sex. After two weeks, it is necessary to undergo a follow-up examination to assess the treatment result.
Vaporization of the cervix is an excellent treatment method, which is the "gold standard" for the treatment of some pathologies and is a minimally invasive method. In order not to be afraid of this procedure, you need to know the basic principle of its implementation and the painlessness of this method. If any symptoms occur after the procedure, you need to consult a doctor.
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