How are precancerous conditions of the cervix treated?

All treatments directed toward neoplastic conditions of the cervix should be based on a biopsy and not a Pap smear alone.

Treatment for a precancerous lesion of the cervix depends on a number of factors.

These factors include whether the lesion is low or high grade, whether the woman wants to have children in the future, the woman's age and general health, and the preference of the woman and her doctor.

A woman with a low-grade lesion may not need further treatment, especially if the abnormal area was removed during biopsy, but she should have a Pap test and pelvic exam regularly by a physician with expertise in this area.

When a precancerous lesion requires treatment, the doctor may use:

• Cryosurgery (freezing)

• Cauterization Burning (also called diathermy)

• Laser Surgery (to destroy abnormal area without harming nearby healthy tissue

• LEEP (Loop Electrosurgical Excision Procedure)

• Conization (Cone Biopsy)