Cervical Dysplasia Outline

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Introduction
Cervical dysplasia is a condition in which a woman's cervix cells have abnormal changes. The cervix is the opening to the uterus (womb). It is located between the vagina and the uterus. Cervical dysplasia may be the first sign of cervical cancer.
With early detection, treatment, and close follow-up care, nearly all cases of cervical dysplasia can be cured. If left untreated, dysplasia may become more severe.
What are the causes?
Cervical dysplasia can be caused by a human papillomavirus (HPV) infection. HPV is the most common sexually transmitted infection (STI). HPV is spread from person to person through sexual contact. This includes oral, vaginal, or anal sex.
What increases the risk?
The following factors may make you more
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Having a weakened immune system.
Being the daughter of a woman who took diethylstilbestrol (DES) during pregnancy.
Having a family history of cervical cancer.
Smoking.
Using oral contraceptives, also called birth control pills.
Having had three or more full-term pregnancies
What are the signs or symptoms?
There are usually no symptoms of this condition. If you do have symptoms, they may include:
Abnormal vaginal discharge.
Bleeding between periods or after sex.
Bleeding during menopause.
Pain during sex (dyspareunia).
How is this diagnosed?
A test called a Pap test may be done. During this test, cells are taken from the cervix and then looked at under a microscope. A test in which tissue is removed from the cervix (biopsy) may also be done if the Pap test is abnormal or if the cervix looks abnormal.
How is this treated?
Treatment varies based on the severity of the condition. Treatment may
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During cryotherapy, the abnormal cells are frozen with a steel-tip instrument.
Loop electrosurgical excision procedure (LEEP). This is a procedure to remove abnormal tissue from the cervix.
Surgery to remove abnormal tissue. This is usually done in serious cases.. Surgical options include:
A cone biopsy. This is a procedure in which the cervical canal and a portion of the center of the cervix are removed.
Hysterectomy. This is a surgery in which the uterus and cervix are removed.
Follow these instructions at home:
Take over-the-counter and prescription medicines only as told by your health care provider.
Do not use tampons, have sex, or douche until your health care provider says it is okay.
Keep follow-up visits as told by your health care provider. This is important. Women who have been treated for cervical dysplasia should have regular pelvic exams and Pap tests as told by their health care provider.
How is this prevented?
To prevent the condition from developing again, practice safe sex.
Contact a health care provider if:
You develop genital warts.
Get help right away if:
Your menstrual period is heavier than normal.
You develop bright red bleeding. This may include blood clots.
You have a