What Is Cervical Conization and Why Do I Need It?

If you have abnormal tissue on your cervix—also called cervical dysplasia—then your gynecologist may recommend cervical conization. During this procedure, a small, cone-shaped tissue sample is removed from the cervix so that it can be examined for signs of cancer. Your gynecologist will use the results of the conization to determine which steps, if any, should be taken to address your abnormal cells. If you are having this procedure done, here is what you need to know.

What Happens During Cervical Conization?

Depending on your needs, you may receive general anesthesia for the procedure, or your gynecologist may recommend that you receive sedatives instead, so that you feel relaxed. After inserting a speculum, your gynecologist will remove the tissue sample using an electrical current, a scalpel, or a laser. Cervical conizations performed using an electrical current are referred to as LEEP procedures, while procedures done using a scalpel are referred to as cold knife biopsies.

Why Do I Need This Procedure?

If you have an abnormal Pap smear during a well woman exam, your gynecologist will perform a colposcopy procedure, in which a special camera is used to view the cells on your cervix. If your gynecologist sees the abnormal cells, he or she may remove a small sample. If this sample doesn’t provide enough information about the cause of the cellular changes, your gynecologist will perform conization to obtain a larger tissue sample.

What Should I Expect After My Procedure?

It’s normal to experience cramps for about a week after the procedure. You may also have discharge that may be bloody or yellow in color for two to three weeks, and your gynecologist may suggest that you avoid intercourse, tampons, and douching for four to six weeks as you heal. The results of the test will tell your gynecologist if your cells are normal or if you have cancerous or precancerous changes that may require treatment.

Cervical conization is one of the many procedures we provide at Women’s Healthcare Associates. You can learn more about our gynecologic procedures and schedule an appointment with a provider by calling our OB/GYN clinic in Houston at 713-654-8128.