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Complications after Cervical Cryotherapy

I hope someone here has had this experience and can give me some insight into what might be happening. In May I was diagnosed with mild dysplasia. In June I had a colposcopy and cervical biopsy performed, and in July I had cervcial cryotherapy ( which I refuse to ever have again.) After the procedure, I wasn't told to avoid intercourse, however, I stayed away from it just in case. After all the poking and prodding done over the past months I wasn't even in the mood, I felt so broken and not normal I didn't want to be touched. Well about three weeks after the procedure I felt more like myself and one night my boyfriend and I were fooling around and (sorry if this is too much info) while his hand was down south, I experience the worst pain on my clitoris. The more aroused I became the worse it got so we stopped. A couple of days later we tried again and it wasn't as bad so we continued, however, during orgasm again I experienced horrible cramping pain. I literally started crying afterwards. I've done so much research to see what it could be and came up with nothing. It's such a horrible feeling, I feel completely broken. I could use any help or advice you all have. I don't know if this could be associate with my new bcp, but I really don't think so. I am more than sure it has to do with the cryotherapy. Any thoughts on this?
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Avatar universal
When I'd had the colposcopy a few months before, I had almost no pain or cramping. The discharge was also minimal and only lasted a few days. I was hoping since I'd had good luck with that procedure that the cryo would be relatively easy as well. Unfortunately that was NOT the case.

I had it done almost 3 weeks ago, and I've already had to go back to the doctor twice. I had my period the week after, and the smell was embarrassingly terrible. It made me feel really self conscious because people sitting next to or in a confined space with me could smell it. My doctor said I developed an infection, so he gave me antibiotics. The smell has dissipated greatly, but since starting the antibiotics the discharge has gotten much worse. Before it was just a runny yellow/pinkish liquid, but now it is brown clumps of mucus. Today is 19 days since the procedure, and I have started cramping again. I haven't had sex at all since the procedure.

As for the procedure itself? Terrible. Those of you that didn't have pain, you should be thankful. I almost passed out on the table and had the nurse squeezing my hand reminding me to breathe. (I have a tendency to stop breathing when I panic or feel intense pain.) I had pretty severe cramping that day, but my doctor had told me to expect that. I am very sensitive to pain medications, and I had just had gastric sleeve surgery just over a month beforehand, so I was very limited as to what I could take before the procedure. I'm sure that's why the procedure itself was painful, but here it is weeks later and I deeply regret having it.
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Avatar universal
It's not that bad don't leave it alone. What they do is freeze your cervix for 3 minutes, let it thaw out for 5 minutes then freeze it again for another 3. It doesn't hurt maybe a  tiny bit of cramping in your stomach that's all. The nurse offered to hold my hand because I was so nervous and she talked to me the whole time. YOULL BE FINE. Dont leave it alone!!
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Avatar universal
I had this procedure done and I’m so worried because I haven’t found optimistic reviews about cervical cryotherapy. If you see this, can you please provide some insight on how you’re feeling now that so many years have passed? Are you still experiencing symptoms or were you able to heal and feel healthy again? It will help tremendously <3 Thank you
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4 Comments
I had this done what must be 30 years ago now.

I'm fine. From what I remember, it was a really nasty few weeks or so? Maybe? And then I was fine.

I don't remember how long I wasn't supposed to have sex, but whatever they tell you now, do that. I think it's 2 or 3 weeks. Don't use tampons, either.

Really, you should be fine. If you have any odd symptoms, see your doctor. This is a super common procedure, and is done all the time with no complications. If you only look at message boards and the like, you'll only find people reporting problems. People don't usually post on the internet about things that aren't causing problems. :)

This is also a super old thread. You might want to start your own by posting your own question to get more replies.
This was so helpful, thank you! when I looked online (med forum, medical journals, reels etc) it’s mostly a bunch of men saying how effective it is… other than this blog.

There was nothing about the woman experience, so naturally, I as getting worried. My spouse said the same thing and you are so right! I just signed up to post on this forum, so I am new. If I can navigate the site maybe I’ll start a blog called “cervical cryotherapy success stories?” or something? :)

Thank you for providing insight. You gave me a peace of mind and are helping me see a light at the end of the cryotherapy tunnel lol
I'm glad I helped. :)

If you want to post your own question in Women's Health, click/tap here - https://www.medhelp.org/posts/new_question?forum_id=81

If you want to read more in Women's Health - https://www.medhelp.org/forums/Womens-Health/show/81

For all the forums - https://www.medhelp.org/forums/list

Incredible, thank you :)
Avatar universal
Hello. I just want to say I completely get what you say. I had cryotherapy 9 years ago after my first son was born. After that sex, especially orgasms became really painful, as if something was being teared apart. My gynecologist, even though she's a very good one and really listens to her patients, could not see a reason for this as being linked to cryotherapy. After some years it became better (but of course it was really difficult for me and my partner) and eventually became something that would only happen now and then. However, as soon as I got pregnant for the second times (around 7 years after cryotherapy) the pain when having sex came back. When I told my midwife she said 'oh, it's normal, is your husband ok with it?' (!!!!). After more than a year of giving birth, I'm still having pain every time I try. It's so frustrating to see that there's no research about this, and that once more women are being ignored in what matters to us.
Helpful - 0
2 Comments
Would love to hear some experiences from women who have had this procedure done 4+ years ago so those of us who have done it recently can better prepare ourselves. I had it done 9 days ago. It wasn't painful at all. Felt a little fever and very mild cramping afterwards. The discharge started as soon as i started walking out of the hospital and a few days later had a very heavy period (which came on time) Am back to just having yellow-ish, smelly discharge. Thinking of getting antibiotics in case of an infection. Good luck ladies and keep sharing!
And please, don't have sex at least until your 2 months is up. Most women have bleeding problems even after waiting a month. I think the healing process takes a lot longer than what we are told. Put your health first.
Avatar universal
Hello. I just want to say I completely get what you say. I had cryotherapy 9 years ago after my first son was born. After that sex, especially orgasms became really painful, as if something was being teared apart. My gynecologist, even though she's a very good one and really listens to her patients, could not see a reason for this as being linked to cryotherapy. After some years it became better (but of course it was really difficult for me and my partner) and eventually became something that would only happen now and then. However, as soon as I got pregnant for the second times (around 7 years after cryotherapy) the pain when having sex came back. When I told my midwife she said 'oh, it's normal, is your husband ok with it?' (!!!!). After more than a year of giving birth, I'm still having pain every time I try. It's so frustrating to see that there's no research about this, and that once more women are being ignored in what matters to us.
Helpful - 0
Avatar universal
I had the cryotherapy about a month ago not too bad you can feel them scrapping and tugging when the dr takes the samples but what has me worried is that the fact sheet just said I&#39;d spot a little but more discharge clear like if it changed to any color it would be an infection but I have been bleeding for a month I called the OBGYN back worried but be said it was fine that my Utuerus was just irrated...but I feel like something&#39;s not quite right also don&#39;t be alarmed if you pass a grey/whitish flesh like thing it&#39;s just the abnormal cells I almsot had like a panic attack until I called to ask...again the OBGYN was calm and said it&#39;s rare when that happens
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Avatar universal
I've just had cryo and can honestly say I felt nothing during the procedure, what's all the fuss about! It's a little uncomfortable and you feel a slight period pain for the day but otherwise totally fine. Take 2 ibuprofens the hour before and you will have no worries whatsoever. My doctor said it is very very rare for anyone to feel pain during or afterwards. The cramps are so minimal. Other friends have had it too and said the same. The people on here who have had pain are unfortunately the exception, hence they are writing on this blog. There's nothing to worry about. If you do experience any heavy bleeding etc, a doctor will see to any infection. However this is also rare too.
Helpful - 0
Avatar universal
Just came across this forum, sorry to hear that almost most of you on here have had MORE problems due to this procedure then what you started off with. I too have had it done and regret it deeply.

If I'm totally honest I always thought there was a problem with me and that's why the procedure maybe didn't work but made things worse. Came on here after 9 odd years to do a bit of research because it is starting to bother me again and find out im not the only one.

I had mine done when I was about 18-19 and I am 27 now. My dr referred me to a gynecologist because I was bleeding during sex and was also having a little discharge. My main issue was the bleeding though because it was so embarrassing, felt like I was on my period every time.

It was quite an unpleasant experience for me with the spectrum, the freezing of the cells, the cramps, the cold feeling, abdominal pain, it was all very very uncomfortable but I kept thinking of the end result.

The gyno told me it was a sure
thing that I would feel a little discomfort for a day or so and would have discharge for a week or two at most.

The benefit for me that came out of this procedure : Bleeding stopped completely til today I have not bled during sex not once.

The downfall to this procedure : The discharge didn't stop after a week or two, it got worse, I still have this problem even after 9 years and still hate it and feel uncomfortable. Panty liners are a must for me, ALWAYS. Thongs and pretty lacy underwear with a thin front is not an option, EVER.

NO 2 : Every time I have sex it gets excruciatingly painful. I cant handle the pain. I cant even begin to explain the effects of the procedure. ( Sorry if its too much info but hard to explain with out the gory details) but the only position I feel comfortable and pain free is the missionary position nothing else. At first I'm fine but when it goes deep inside I cant bare it. My lower stomach feels like its going to burst open and someone's shoved a sharp knife in me. So you can imagine the frustration my boyfriend feels,and I hate letting him down every time but I don't know what else to do. I hate drs and hate gynos even more. In these 9 yrs I have tried to just ignore it but I dont think I can any more than I all ready have.

I know it ain't the same for everyone and I understand that. So for those of you who it has worked out for lucky you, for those of you thinking of giving it a go,  plz plz go through all of your options with your dr first before making any decisions.
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Avatar universal
I had cryotherapy in late May and have abstained from sex however, I did have an orgasm and have been bleeding lightly since early July. Before the bleeding/spotting began I went to the pool and upon entering the water I felt an intense burn. I visited my doctor and he said that it's okay to swim or sit in a tub because it's already been more than a month since the procedure. He's giving me another month to see if the bleeding stops before he performs another Pap smear. Has anyone experienced this particular problem with bleeding/spotting almost two months after cryo. I am nervous and scared that something is drastically wrong. Please advise.
Helpful - 0
Avatar universal
I had the procedure done, My doctor told me to refrain from sexual intercourse for at least two week. I did, then my period came, and I waited like five days after it stopped to have sex (cause I was super horney) there was a little bleeding but nothing to alarm me and no pain. About two days later I got a cold, I thought maybe my immune system was just weak and the season was changing. I got better, then about a week in a half later I had sex again and now am experiencing fevers and chills.. I am going to the doctor tomorrow to make sure I don't have an infection..cross my fingers
Helpful - 0
Avatar universal
I too had cryosurgery about two weeks ago. Before I had it done, the doctor told me that I would feel some slight cramping during the procedure and would have a light discharge afterward. It's very clear to me now that he is a male and has obviously never been through this procedure before. Slight cramping my foot! I almost passed out. I've never had period cramps that bad in my life. And the amount of discharge afterwards was about the equivalent of peeing your pants... Literally that's what it feels like because it's that bad. Two weeks later and it is still that bad. Also, three mornings ago, I woke bleeding... profusely! I've always been able to use regular tampons for usually 4 or 5 hours without any problems. But, right now I'm bleeding through super tampons within 3 hours. Sorry for all the horrible details but that's exactly what this experience has been for me... HORRIBLE!
Helpful - 0
Avatar universal
I've just had this done and it was my first gyno appointment so was thinking just a consultation(i had cervical ectropion).I went there expecting a discussion and a chat to what to do next then bam,get on the bed,cryotherapy done without any warning or my knowledge until reading on here of what it does.I'm very uncomfortable and feel I was railroaded into this but of course you are supposed to trust the dr right? I went on my own and had to sit down for a while after,I wasn't told a lot only given a fact sheet and still now i'm only finding out stuff online.All i was told was a bit of discharge for a couple of days and periods may be affected and a scan appointment is in the post! You can imagine my shock that the 1st appointment was the actual thing! it was horrible and I would put up with the bleeding in between periods rather than going thru that again!!
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Avatar universal
I had cryotherapy treatment just over 2 weeks ago. Advice i was given was no sex for 6 weeks and to change my contraceptive pill to one with no estrogen in it as this can cause the ectropian on your cervix and changing to a pill with no estrogen can actually improve it even before cryotherapy. I didnt fancy going on the progesten only pill so opted for one with less estrogen and am hoping this will lower my chances of it returning.
Hope this helps : )
Helpful - 0
Avatar universal
I've put off the surgery for a year. moderate dysplacia and pcos. I've withered from 145 to 107 i have pain often and nausea and often feel weak . I've learned to ignore pains now bc i developed ulcers from all the ibprophen causing stomach bleeding .i found all the moderate dysplacia hpv stuff out round this time last yr. I'm my immune system has all but seized to exist. i get sinus. infections yeast a flea bite two weeks ago turned staph n abcessed. mind you I'm a clean girl. never had a std or even yeast before now its as tho I'm fading away.. my dd chest is barely a B my body is like 5th grade . i am doin cyro soon and hope it all stops. need 600 dollars for the. appt n procedure . Sex is already painful afterwards so really what's else to go wrong?? Any advice reference prayers etc are welcomed.. please. how do i get me back. I'm almost gone it seems..
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Avatar universal
all I can say is everyones experience is diffrent.  I am a 44 year old women and I have gone through pain in life and my experience with the cryotherapy was not a good one.  it wasnt something I could not deal with but it did hurt,  the mos annoying part of it all was the headache that lasted for about 15 hours after the procedure.  its only been 3 days since the cryotherapy procedure and I am still getting some cramps I hope they ease up soon.  but like I originally said everyonce experience will be diffrent, some will hurt some wont so lets watch how we phrase our words to these young girls that ask for our feedback because maybe your where blessed to not feel pain doesnt mean they didnt or wont.......God bless everyone!!
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Avatar universal
I had the procedure done one week ago. I know this is a little descriptive but I started to bleed some mucous stuff then something came out that was like oyster looking in the toilet out from down there. Is this normal I'm a bit freaked out.
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Avatar universal
I had the procedure done one week ago. I know this is a little descriptive but I started to bleed some mucous stuff then something came out that was like oyster looking in the toilet out from down there. Is this normal I'm a bit freaked out.
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Avatar universal
I'm having the same issues as you had described with bleeding during intercourse...have you found anything to stop the bleeding yet?
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Avatar universal
I had cryosurgery 6 weeks ago , And i am still bleeding and cramping ,but my q: is does anyone lower back hurt mine does and it hurts to move  .
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Avatar universal
I am having abdominal pains 4wks after cervical cauterization
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Avatar universal
I would not recommend this surgery to anyone.  I'm almost 4 weeks post and I can assure you this will never be done to me again.  My doctor, as far as I am concerned FORMER DOCTOR, told me very little - made it sound like no big deal and that in 10-14 days I would be as good as new.  I'm surprised at how little women are informed about cryotherapy before they undergo the procedure actually.  Anyway, the pain was tolerable as it was happening.  But the after effects are terrible!  HEAVY, profuse, watery discharge has been pouring out of me for nearly four weeks now.  It smells like, for lack of a better word, strong coochie.  It is embarassing and I am extremely self conscious about it. I was instructed to wear pads until the discharge stopped, whenever that may be. After about 2 1/2 weeks I switched to tampons for the simple reason that 2+ weeks in a pad causes diaper rash.  The discharge leaks out anyway.  This is hellish and I would never recommend this to anyone, not even my worst enemy.  I wish I knew then what I know now.  A bit of background info: I'm 29 with no kids.  Never want kids.  Wish hysterectomies were optional without medical reason.  I've been on BC for 10+ years specifically to not have periods because of the migraines they caused me.  I had mild displaysia that had literally been the same for probably about 5 years.  I was tired of having to go for a PAP every 6 months so I agreed to this torture.  Now I wish I would have stuck it out with my fingers crossed for a PAP bad enough to qualify for a hysterectomy.  This has been the most disgusting 4 weeks of my life and I am so ready for it to stop.  Do your homework before you agree to this, ladies!
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Avatar universal
This morning I had a colposopy. I thought it would be like a pap smear, so I never checked on it on the internet, and my dr. just said I'd have slight cramping. I went w/ my husband (No one told me to bring a driver with) and the dr came in and used that spectrum to open me up, I wasn't expecting much pain--BUT-OMG--in seconds I was SCREAMING! I knew she was stil down on the stool doing the procedure, and I swear, I almost kicked her right off her stool. She left w/o even an 'I'm sorry" as I laid on  the table massaging my cramps, and yes--they were BAD. I wish I had read your post, and did some research first. I could NOT put my slacks on b/c my cramps hurt SO bad--so THANK GOD I had a hoodie w/ me I wrapped it around me, and left w/ my husband out to the car. NO SLACKS.  W/i a few minutes of being home, I began to feel the room spinning. It got worse and worse, and I felt such nausea and weakness. I've been in bed all day and I've just felt SO awful, weak and light headed.
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Avatar universal
I had cryotherapy done 3 weeks ago now. I experienced bleeding after sex so I went to see my doctor who referred me to a gynaecologist. On my first appointment the gynaecologist found the problem straight away and I had the procedure done I didn't even have time to worry or be scared about the pain because it happened so fast. But what I can say is that is was very uncomfortable the freezing did actually sting at times but the cramping was worse afterwards it made me cry but the stinging with the freezing lasted seconds so I could cope with that. I had sex last night I'm feeling very dry and sore and bled quite a lot so now I'm panicking. I've got to see my doctor toMoz but really nervous to tell her what I've done because she is going to say I have brought it upon myself someone please help with advice to make the subject easier to talk about
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Avatar universal
I was told no sex for 4 weeks and then for the following 2 weeks to use condoms. After that it is ALWAYS recommended to wear condoms in general but not necessary for him to anymore. The reasoning for the 4 weeks is to allow proper healing and good time for the cells to rejuvenate. The first 2 weeks of sex to protect yourself just in case the healing is not complete you are not putting bacteria directly there you have the condom forming a barrier.
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