• Colposcopy is a diagnostic procedure used to examine, under the vulva, vagina or cervix to determine if there are any abnormalities. Most commonly a colposcopy of the cervix is done as a follow-up to an abnormal pap smear.
• The exam itself is similar to a pap smear in that a speculum is inserted into the vagina so that the cervix is visable. The colposcopy is situated so the provider may view the cervix with a 10-40 times magnification. If abnormal tissue is visualized a biopsy may be done. Colposcopy is also used for abnormalities of the vagina and vulva. Some women may experience discomfort when a biopsy is done so we recommend taking 600 mg to 800 mg of Ibuprofen an hour before the procedure.
• A colposcopy is a safe procedure with few complications. Light bleeding, mildcramping or discharge for up to a week after the procedure is normal. It is very important to follow your provider’s recommendation for follow up for at least one or two years following this procedure.

• Intrauterine devices (IUDs) are a method of birth control that has few side effects. They can provide long-term effective protection against pregnancy. The devices require precision and care to be fully effective and protect against infection. Talk to your provider about the contraception choices available that are best for you.
• During proper IUD insertion, the cervix and uterus are measured and the IUD is inserted to the proper depth by a tube. A string is left hanging in the cervical canal for maintenance and removal purposes.  IUDs should be inserted by a trained health care professional who will minimize your risk for complications.
• Our office carries the Mirena, Skyla, Paragard and Liletta IUDs.

• This procedure is often recommended to assess the lining of the uterus for women who have abnormal bleeding.  Abnormal uterine bleeding is frequently caused by a hormonal imbalance.  A biopsy is recommended to make sure the bleeding is not related to anything more worrisome including endometrial cancer.
• To perform the biopsy, a speculum is inserted into the vagina and a small plastic tube is inserted through the speculum to suction a sample of the lining.  The endometrial tissue is then evaluated by a pathologist at an outside lab.  This office procedure may briefly cause a little discomfort, so 600 mg to 800 mg of Ibuprofen is recommended one hour before a patient’s appointment.

• If a Pap or other tests (colposcopy) reveals abnormal cells in one’s cervix, a LEEP may be recommended to remove the abnormal tissue. A fine wire loop with a special high-frequency current allows our doctor to precisely remove the abnormal tissue. The cervix is numbed with a local anesthetic allowing the doctor to perform this in the office.
• We recommend taking 600 mg to 800 mg of Ibuprofen an hour before the procedure to minimize potential discomfort. LEEP is usually a successful treatment, but close follow up will need to be maintained for the first two years to be sure the cervix is free of further problems.

Once  a diagnosis of interstitial cystitis has been established, we have excellent tools for providing immediate relief.  The patient can receive these treatments in the office and may choose to learn how to self treat themselves at home.  In the long run a prescription medication can significantly help restore the lining of the bladder and eliminate the need for further treatments.

• Oral medication
• Medication instilled directly into the bladder
• Diet modification – Avoiding food that may make symptoms worse
• Bladder training

There is no cure for interstitial cystitis, but after treatment many patients report that their symptoms are greatly reduced. Symptoms can recur, so it is important to be in contact with a doctor if diagnosed with this condition.