Cauterization in the uterus: ask your questions about this type of procedure

Cauterization in the uterus is used to treat “cervical wounds” – as they are popularly called -, which can come from physiological changes or injuries caused by the HPV virus, for example. Learn how the procedure is done, how the patient’s recovery is usually and the clarification for the main questions on the subject.

What is uterine cauterization?

Maura Azzi Tassi (CRM 5298909-6), gynecologist and obstetrician at the Maieve Corralo Institute, explains that cauterization is a procedure that generates a burn of controlled depth and intensity in the cervix area, destroying that more fragile epithelium and making the tissue regenerated. more resistent.

“It can be performed with chemical or physical agents, either for the treatment of physiological changes that are very symptomatic (such as routine bleeding in intercourse or profuse discharge, after excluding pathological causes) or for lesions caused by the HPV virus”, he adds. the gynecologist.

How is it done?

Cervical cauterization can be performed in the gynecologist’s office with or without local anesthesia. “The procedure is not very painful, reported more often by some women as cramping. In the gynecological position, the speculum is passed and the procedure is performed”, explains Maura.

“Cauterization can be, for example, chemical, when performed through the application of acid; or electrocautery, when done with a device that emits electrical waves (electrocautery)”, adds Maura.

Recovery

Maura explains that the woman can return home without having to be hospitalized and carry out her activities normally, only avoiding very intense exercises.

“You should be advised that you may have colic, minor bleeding and that you should avoid sexual intercourse, use of intravaginal devices, tampons and douches”, highlights the gynecologist.

Doctor clarifies doubts about cauterization in the uterus

The gynecologist Maura answers the main questions related to cauterization in the uterus below:

1. How soon can the patient resume normal activities?

The next day, the patient can return to her work activities, only avoiding excessive efforts, as highlighted by Maura.

2. What causes the wound on the cervix?

“The term ‘wound’ is used to refer to a woman’s physiological condition (more common in adolescents, contraceptive users and pregnant women), which resolves spontaneously. The cervix has the outermost lining of cells (squamous epithelium – more resistant to trauma, vaginal acidity and infection by viruses and bacteria) and an innermost one (glandular epithelium). In some situations, physiologically by the action of the estrogen hormone, the inner part moves out (what we call ectopia) and, on specular examination (duck bill), the cervix becomes redder. This glandular epithelium generates an increase in the production of vaginal secretion, is more sensitive and, sometimes, the patient has bleeding during sexual intercourse and is more susceptible to exposure to infectious agents (for example, the HPV virus)”, explains Maura.

“Often the term ‘wound’ is also used to refer to condylomas (warts) or lesions caused by the HPV virus, seen after performing colposcopy (exam that visualizes the uterine cervix through a camera) in women with altered preventive ”, adds the gynecologist.

3. Can you have sexual intercourse after uterine cauterization?

“For at least 15 days the patient should not have sexual intercourse, and the return to the same will be released by the doctor after evaluating the complete healing of the cervix”, explains Maura.

4. Is it possible to get pregnant after cauterization?

Cervical cauterization does not make pregnancy difficult or increase the rate of miscarriage or premature birth, as highlighted by Maura.

5. What is the healing time?

“The procedure in general is simple and the recovery time will depend on each person. In general, it varies from 15 to 40 days”, replies gynecologist Maura.

6. Is discharge after cauterization normal?

It is normal for the patient to have discharge after the procedure. “However, if the same comes associated with fever, foul smell or increased bleeding, it should be immediately reported to the doctor”, highlights the gynecologist.

7. Is bleeding after cauterization normal?

“Small vaginal bleeding can occur over the course of a few days and it is very common for patients to observe greater scaling between 10 and 15 days later. This is because the tissue of the cervix is ​​regenerating after the thermal injury caused by cauterization”, explains Maura.

In any case, in the face of any uncomfortable sign after the procedure, it is important for the woman to talk to her gynecologist in order to avoid possible complications. Enjoy and clarify your doubts about HPV, so you can take care of yourself and prevent the disease.

The information contained on this page is for informational purposes only. They do not replace the advice and follow-up of doctors, nutritionists, psychologists, physical education professionals and other specialists.