Cryotherapy is an outpatient, minimally invasive procedure in which superficial cervical lesions are precisely frozen, while preserving healthy tissue and allowing a fast return to everyday activities.
Cryotherapy in gynaecology is a procedure in which, with the help of a special probe and a cooling agent (liquid nitrogen or another gaseous mixture), surface changes on the cervix or in the vaginal area are frozen in a controlled way. Cooling the tissue to very low temperatures causes the altered cells to die off, while the healthy tissue deeper down is spared as much as possible.
The procedure is most often outpatient, without the need for general anaesthesia. It is carried out after a prior gynaecological work-up (gynaecological examination, Pap test, and if needed colposcopy and HPV testing) in order to clearly define whether the change needs treatment and whether cryotherapy is an appropriate choice.
Cryotherapy is considered after a detailed gynaecological work-up, when it is determined that the changes should not be ignored but at the same time do not require a more extensive surgical procedure (e.g. conisation).
A follow-up examination and Pap test are carried out at an agreed time after the procedure, in order to assess healing and the effect of the treatment. In some cases an improvement in the cytological findings and a reduction in complaints is possible, but every case is individual and sometimes further work-up or another treatment method is needed.
The aim of cryotherapy is to remove or significantly reduce the surface changes that cause complaints (discharge, bleeding, discomfort), with gradual restoration of the healthy mucosa of the cervix.
Cryotherapy requires no incisions or stitches. It acts locally on the altered tissue, while preserving the surrounding healthy tissue as much as possible.
The freezing procedure itself takes a few minutes, and most patients stay in the clinic for a short time after the procedure and return home the same day.
Cryotherapy does not significantly change the structure and length of the cervix, which is particularly important for women planning a future pregnancy.
The gynaecologist examines the cervix once more, goes through the findings with you (Pap, colposcopy, HPV) and explains the course of the procedure and the expected results.
In the gynaecological position a speculum is placed to expose the cervix. If needed, a local anaesthetic or an agent to reduce discomfort is applied.
A cryoprobe is placed on the altered area, freezing the tissue in one or more freeze-and-thaw cycles. During the procedure you may feel pressure or brief discomfort, but pain is most often minimal.
After the procedure you rest for a few minutes in the clinic. Before going home you receive written instructions about the expected discharge and how to behave after the procedure, as well as a date for a follow-up examination.
You will receive detailed instructions when the procedure is arranged, but they most often include:
Note: As a rule there is no need to fast, and specific instructions (e.g. about taking your morning medication) will be given individually, depending on your state of health.
Most patients feel well immediately after the procedure and can return to their usual activities the same day or the next day.
In such situations contact us as soon as possible, and if you are not sure whether it is needed immediately, please call — together we will decide on the next step.
The decision to treat changes of the cervix often comes with many questions and worries, which is why it is important to have a team you trust. At Cito Polyclinic we strive to combine modern diagnostics, minimally invasive procedures and a very personal approach, so that you feel safe and cared for throughout the whole process.
Specialists in gynaecology with experience in diagnosing and treating changes of the cervix, including cryotherapy, with clear communication and a realistic explanation of the expected results.
Gynaecological examination, Pap test, HPV typing, colposcopy and the procedure - everything can be arranged in the same centre, which shortens the time to the final decision and treatment.
Cryotherapy is proposed only when it is genuinely needed and when we expect a benefit. Together we go through all the options, including the possibility of monitoring without a procedure, depending on the findings.
An organised process from the first consultation to the follow-up after the procedure, without unnecessary waiting, with written instructions and the option of additional questions if needed.
The price of the procedure at Cito Polyclinic is 100 EUR and includes an outpatient gynaecological procedure using low temperatures, with no need for general anaesthesia.
Before the procedure, a gynaecological examination and the necessary diagnostic work-up (e.g. a Pap test) are carried out, which are charged separately, depending on the findings and indication.
You can get the exact price of the procedure and the first available appointment straight away by phone on +385 21 457 800 or by sending a short message via the contact form.
Specialist in Gynecology and Obstetrics
Subspecialist in Gynecological Endocrinology and Human Reproduction
Specialist in Gynecology and Obstetrics
Subspecialist in Gynecological Endocrinology and Human Reproduction
Specialist in Gynecology and Obstetrics
Subspecialist in Gynecological Endocrinology and Human Reproduction
Specialist in Gynecology and Obstetrics
Specialist in Gynecology and Obstetrics
Find answers to common questions about this service
For ectopy, chronic cervicitis or low-grade lesions after adequate diagnostics. It is not a method for suspected high-grade dysplasia.
Application of liquid nitrogen to the lesion via a probe in 1–3 freeze/thaw cycles. The procedure lasts 10–20 minutes.
Most often a mild pressure or cramps are felt. A watery discharge is expected for 1–2 weeks; abstinence is recommended until the discharge stops.
A check-up is generally in 4-6 months with a repeat Pap test or, depending on indication, colposcopy.
