You have just had your cervix treated by Thermocoagulation.

Please observe the following:

  1. No intercourse (sex) for four weeks.
  2. Do not use tampons for two full periods.
  3. Do not add anything to your bath
    e.g. bubble bath, Savlon, Dettol, etc. or wash your vaginal area with soap for four weeks.
  4. No swimming for four weeks.

You may notice:

  1. A watery red/brown vaginal discharge. This may last for two or three weeks.
  2. Your next period may be heavier than usual.
  3. You may have mild crampy, period-like pains for a couple of days. You should take Paracetamol or what you usually take for such pains.
  4. If you start bleeding, do not be alarmed, it may be a period especially if one is due. However, if the bleeding was not expected or it is especially heavy, contact your GP.
  5. If you notice an offensive (smelly) discharge, please go and see your GP as soon as possible. You may have an infection.
  6. Once intercourse has resumed, if you bleed after intercourse you should see your own GP.

Follow up arrangements

Treatment with the Thermocoagulation can be used for women who have an abnormal smear as well as other problems associated with the cervix (neck of womb).

Follow up for women with an abnormal smear

Please re-attend the Colposcopy Clinic for follow-up as directed. If however your appointment is not convenient or if you are menstruating that day, then telephone the clinic on any weekday morning to re-arrange your appointment.

Please remember that once you have been discharged from the clinic you must have your smear repeated at your own surgery. You will be advised as to how frequent your smear needs to be taken. Smoking is associated with a high risk of having an abnormal smear.

Follow up for women without an abnormal smear

No routine follow up is necessary. Please attend for your routine smear tests when they are due.

If you are worried or have any queries do not hesitate to telephone the clinic on 01270 612212. Available Monday to Thursday 8:30am – 4:30pm and Friday 8:30am – 12:30pm.

This information is also available in PDF format (in English) by clicking the button below.

Thermocoagulation