What is Cervical Freezing? How is it Done?
In women's health, early diagnosis and treatment are the most important steps in preventing serious health problems in the future. Cervical freezing, medically known as "cryotherapy," is a modern method used to treat cellular disorders that occur in the cervix . Magnet Hospital safely performs cervical freezing with its expert team of obstetricians and gynecologists and state-of-the-art equipment.
What is Cervical Freezing (Cryotherapy)?
Cervical cryopreservation is the process of freezing abnormal cells on the surface of the cervix using special equipment using cold gases (usually nitrogen) at temperatures between -60°C and -90°C. This destroys the abnormal cells and allows healthy cells to replace them. Gynecologists at Magnet Hospital use this method specifically for the treatment of cervical erosion, HPV-related cell changes, and some mild precancerous lesions.
Why is Cervical Freezing Done?
Cellular abnormalities in the cervix are often not detected early. However, they can cause serious problems that may lead to the risk of cervical cancer in the future . Cervical freezing is preferred in the following cases:
Cellular changes due to HPV infection
Cervical erosion (cervical ulcer)
Cell disorders caused by chronic infections
Precancerous (pre-cancerous) cell changes
Magnet Hospital aims to solve such problems before they progress through early diagnosis and modern treatment methods.
How is Cervical Freezing Done?
Cervical freezing treatment is usually performed in outpatient clinics , in a short time and painlessly.
The patient is placed in the gynecological examination position.
The cervix is visualized with a special device.
The freezing probe is brought into contact with the area where abnormal cells are located.
The cells are destroyed by the freezing process, which takes 2-3 minutes.
After the procedure, the patient can return to his/her daily life in a short time.
Magnet Hospital specialists provide detailed information to the patient before the procedure and guide them regarding post-procedure care.
What Should You Pay Attention to After Cervical Freezing?
The recovery process after the procedure is quite rapid. However, there are some points to consider:
There may be a watery vaginal discharge for the first few days.
Sexual intercourse should be avoided for 2-3 weeks.
Vaginal tampons should not be used.
The medications prescribed by the doctor should be used regularly.
Control examinations should not be interrupted.
Magnet Hospital gynecologists closely monitor the post-procedure process to ensure that their patients have a healthy recovery.
Advantages of Cervical Freezing
It is a painless and short-term procedure.
Does not require anesthesia.
No hospitalization is required.
Provides a quick return to daily life.
It does not leave permanent damage to the cervix.
It does not negatively affect future fertility .
Thanks to its modern equipment, Magnet Hospital performs cervical freezing in an extremely safe and effective manner.
Recovery Process After Cryotherapy
Cervical freezing (cryotherapy) is a safe treatment method generally known for its rapid recovery. The vast majority of patients can return to their daily lives quickly after the procedure. Magnet Hospital's gynecologists provide detailed information and close follow-up care to ensure patients experience the most comfortable recovery after cryotherapy.
Same Day Discharge
Recovery from cryotherapy is generally quite comfortable. Patients are discharged home the same day, eliminating the need for a hospital stay.
Discharge and tissue shedding
The abnormal cells destroyed during the procedure are eliminated from the body over time. Therefore, you may experience a watery, thick discharge for 2-3 weeks. This is completely normal and indicates that the dead tissue is being eliminated from the body.
Sexual Activity and Tampon Use
To prevent the risk of infection during the healing process:
Sexual intercourse should be avoided for a few weeks.
The use of vaginal tampons is not recommended.
Magnet Hospital specialists determine the appropriate duration for the patient based on their personal health condition and provide clear information.
Follow-up Examinations
After cryotherapy, the doctor's most important goal is to verify that the abnormal cells have been completely destroyed. To do this:
A Pap smear test is performed.
Patients undergoing treatment for cervical dysplasia are recommended to have more frequent Pap tests during the first 2 years.
Magnet Hospital gynecologists and obstetricians aim to prevent potential risks by closely monitoring their patients through regular check-ups.
Common Side Effects
Some side effects may occur after cryotherapy. These are usually mild and temporary:
Light vaginal bleeding (may last up to 4 weeks)
Cramps and mild pain
Watery discharge
Your doctor will inform you about when you can start sexual intercourse and hygiene rules.
Possible Risks and Side Effects
Cryotherapy is generally a safe procedure. However, in rare cases, the following side effects may occur:
Pain and cramps
Light bleeding
Swelling and blister formation
Prolonged numbness
Rarely, scar tissue development
Risk of infection
Especially if there is pregnancy or suspicion of pregnancy, the doctor must be informed before the procedure.
Cervical Freezing Treatment at Magnet Hospital
Regular checkups are crucial for protecting women's health and preventing potential risks. Magnet Hospital prioritizes patient comfort throughout both the diagnosis and treatment processes, implementing the most up-to-date methods. Patients can obtain detailed information from Magnet Hospital's obstetricians and gynecologists before and after their procedures, and have all their questions answered with confidence.
Cervical Freezing (Cryotherapy) Prices
Cervical freezing costs vary depending on the specific hospital where the procedure is performed, the equipment used, the doctor's experience, and the patient's health. In some cases, the procedure may be partially covered by SGK or private health insurance. It's important to obtain the most accurate pricing information from a gynecologist and the hospital's advisory department before the procedure.
Is Cervical Freezing Covered by Social Security?
One of the questions patients frequently ask is whether cervical cryotherapy is covered by the Social Security Institution (SGK). The SGK covers some diagnostic and therapeutic procedures, subject to specific criteria. However, procedures performed at private hospitals may incur additional fees. Therefore, it's important to inquire about the hospital's SGK agreements before the procedure.
Pregnancy After Cervical Freezing
Many patients are curious about the question of whether cervical freezing can help them get pregnant. Because cryotherapy doesn't cause permanent damage to the cervix, it has no negative impact on future fertility. On the contrary, it prevents the treated cell disorders from causing problems in future pregnancies.
Intercourse After Cervical Freezing
When can I have sex after cervical freezing? One of the most frequently asked questions after the procedure is the time it takes to have sex. Sexual intercourse is generally avoided for 2-3 weeks. This period allows the tissues to fully heal and reduces the risk of infection. Your doctor can individualize this time period based on your health.
Discharge After Cervical Freezing
It's completely normal to have a watery, sometimes thick, discharge after cryotherapy. This discharge is part of the body's process of removing dead cells. It usually diminishes and disappears completely within 2-3 weeks. If the discharge is foul-smelling or persists for a long time, consult a doctor to rule out the possibility of an infection.
Menstrual Period After Cervical Freezing
Another question patients often ask is, "Will cervical freezing change menstrual cycle patterns?" This procedure doesn't have a permanent effect on the menstrual cycle. There may be some temporary changes during the first one or two periods, but then the menstrual cycle returns to normal.
Cervical Freezing Risks and Harms
As with any medical procedure, cryotherapy can carry some risks. Cervical freezing side effects include light bleeding, cramping, temporary discharge, and, rarely, the risk of infection. However, these side effects are generally mild and temporary. When performed under the supervision of a specialist, the procedure is extremely safe.
How Long Does Cervical Freezing Take?
Patients often wonder, "How long does cervical freezing take?" The procedure is completed in approximately 10-15 minutes, and patients can be discharged the same day and return to their daily routine.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is the cervical freezing procedure painful?
The cervical freezing (cryotherapy) procedure is generally painless. You may feel a slight pressure or cramp, but it doesn't require anesthesia.
How long does cervical freezing take?
The procedure takes approximately 10-15 minutes to complete. The patient can be discharged the same day and return to their daily routine.
Can I return to work after the procedure?
Yes, you can return to your daily life and work immediately after the procedure.
Can you get pregnant after cervical freezing?
Yes. This procedure doesn't cause permanent damage to the cervix, so it doesn't have any negative effects on fertility. It's possible to become pregnant after treatment.
Is discharge normal after the procedure?
Yes, it is normal to have a watery discharge for a few weeks after treatment due to the removal of dead cells.
Does cervical freezing prevent cancer?
Yes. Cryotherapy, especially in the early treatment of HPV-related cell changes, significantly reduces the risk of developing cervical cancer.
How long should sexual intercourse be avoided?
It is generally recommended to avoid sexual intercourse for 2-3 weeks.
Will menstrual cycle change after cervical freezing?
There is no permanent change in the menstrual cycle. Cryotherapy does not permanently affect the menstrual cycle. There may be minor changes in the first few months, but the cycle quickly returns to normal.
Can the process be repeated?
Yes, depending on the condition of the lesion, the procedure can be repeated if necessary.
Is this procedure safe at Magnet Hospital?
Absolutely yes. Magnet Hospital gynecologists safely perform this procedure using the most up-to-date methods.
How much does cervical freezing cost?
Cervical freezing prices and private hospital cryotherapy prices vary depending on hospital conditions, the technology used, and the patient's condition. For the most accurate information, a quote should be obtained from the hospital where the procedure will be performed.