Diathermy to the Cervix/Cold Coagulation to the Cervix

The area of inflammation or abnormality has been treated by diathermy or cold coagulation. This is a heat treatment applied to the cervix (neck of the womb).

Pain

Following this procedure you may experience some period-type pain which is common. You should take some pain relief as required. Follow the instructions on the packet and do not exceed the recommended daily dose.

Bleeding

It is normal to have a brown/dark discharge for a couple of weeks following the procedure. It is advisable to use sanitary towels rather than tampons for the following month after the procedure to minimise the risk of infection.

Activity

You must not drive for 24 hours following sedation or a general anaesthetic which is a requirement of the Road Traffic Act.

It is natural to feel tired, as this is your body’s natural reaction to the stress of the procedure. Take it easy for the next couple of days but ensure that you take regular short walks to help the circulation in your legs.

It is recommended that you do not have sexual intercourse for at least one month following the procedure. You should not go swimming for at least one month to minimise the risk of infection.

Seeking advice

Please contact your GP/out of hours GP or visit your Emergency Department (within the first 24 hours) if you experience any of the following:

• Heavy vaginal bleeding
• Persistent pain not relieved by analgesia
• Offensive discharge (antibiotics might need to be prescribed, as occasionally you may get an infection).

Contact numbers

We hope that you have found this information useful. If you have any questions or are worried about anything, please speak to the following Dorset County Hospital staff:

GP or out of hours GP
NHS Direct: 111
Dorchester Day Surgery Unit: 01305 254501 (day of procedure only)
Abbotsbury Ward after 8pm: 01305 255150
Lulworth Ward after 8pm: 01305 255471

About this leaflet

Author: Laura Gower, staff nurse
Written: March 2013
Updated and approved: November 2020
Review date: November 2023
Edition: v2

If you have feedback regarding the accuracy of the information contained in this leaflet, or if you would like a list of references used to develop this leaflet, please email patientinformation.leaflets@dchft.nhs.uk