Ask An Expert: Cervical Laser Surgery and Sex

Content provided by the Faculty of the Harvard Medical School

Ask An Expert: Cervical Laser Surgery and Sex

Question:

How long after cervical laser surgery do you have to wait before using tampons or having sex?

Answer:

Cervical laser surgery is most often performed to treat precancerous cells noted on Pap smear. The laser is used to destroy abnormal cells while preserving normal cervical cells and architecture. Other options for treatment include freezing the cervix (cryocautery) and excision of abnormal cells with an electrocautery loop (LEEP procedure).

The cervix usually heals well after any of these procedures. Patients are advised to avoid intercourse, use of tampons, and swimming for four to six weeks to allow the cervix to heal properly and avoid bleeding complications. A postoperative visit is usually scheduled after four weeks to examine the cervix and assure that healing is proceeding normally. If a patient continues to have bleeding, discharge, or pain, she should check with her doctor before resuming regular activities.

Joan Bengtson, M.D., is assistant professor of obstetrics, gynecology and reproductive biology at Harvard Medical School and a member of the Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology & Reproduction at Brigham and Women's Hospital.

Print ThisSee All Ask An Expert Articles

Last updated:	January 24, 2007

Medical content reviewed by the Faculty of the Harvard Medical School. Harvard Health Publications, Copyright © 2007 by President and Fellows of Harvard College. All rights reserved. Used with permission of StayWell.

This information is not intended to replace the advice of a doctor. By using AOL Body, you indicate that you have read, understood, and agreed to our Terms of Service, Use of Content Agreement and AOL Body Advertising Policy. Read more about our content partners.