Cervical Dysplasia

Cervical Dysplasia Treatment in Melbourne’s Northern Suburbs

Empower Obstetrics and Gynaecology is committed to providing expert, compassionate care for cervical dysplasia, offering advanced diagnostic, treatment, and follow-up options. Our dedicated female obstetricians and gynaecologists support each woman through every stage—from initial screening and diagnosis to personalized treatment plans and long-term monitoring.

Whether through observation or surgical intervention, Empower offers comprehensive services to ensure the best outcomes for managing cervical dysplasia and safeguarding women’s reproductive health.

What is Cervical Dysplasia?

Cervical dysplasia is a condition marked by abnormal changes in the cells on the cervix—the lower part of the uterus that connects to the vagina. While cervical dysplasia is not cancer, it can increase the risk of cervical cancer if left untreated. Dysplasia is usually detected through routine cervical screening tests (CST), previously known as Pap smears, which allow for early identification of abnormal cells. Early detection is essential, as it allows for timely treatment to prevent potential progression to cancer.

Cervical dysplasia is common, especially among women aged 20 to 30. With appropriate management, most cases can be treated successfully, and in many instances, mild dysplasia can resolve naturally. However, high-grade dysplasia requires closer monitoring and, often, treatment to eliminate the abnormal cells and prevent them from developing into cervical cancer.

Causes of Cervical Dysplasia?

The primary cause of cervical dysplasia is infection with certain types of human papillomavirus (HPV), a common sexually transmitted virus. HPV has many strains, but high-risk types—particularly HPV-16 and HPV-18—are more likely to lead to cellular abnormalities associated with cervical dysplasia. In addition to HPV, other factors can elevate a woman’s risk of developing cervical dysplasia:

Human Papillomavirus (HPV) Infection

HPV, particularly high-risk strains like HPV-16 and HPV-18, is the leading cause of cervical dysplasia. The virus causes changes in the cells on the cervix, which can lead to dysplasia. Many HPV infections clear naturally, but persistent high-risk infections increase the likelihood of abnormal cell changes.

Early Sexual Activity & Multiple Sexual Partners

Engaging in sexual activity at a young age or having multiple sexual partners can heighten the risk of HPV exposure, increasing the likelihood of cervical dysplasia. The cervix is more susceptible to HPV infection at a younger age, making early sexual activity a risk factor.

Smoking

Smoking introduces harmful chemicals into the body, some of which can damage cervical cells, making them more vulnerable to abnormal changes. These chemicals can weaken the immune system’s ability to fight off HPV infections, contributing to a higher risk of cervical dysplasia.

Weakened Immune System

A compromised immune system, whether due to chronic conditions such as HIV/AIDS, immunosuppressive medications, or other chronic health issues, can reduce the body’s capacity to clear HPV infections. Women with weakened immune defences are at an elevated risk for persistent infections and, consequently, cervical dysplasia.

Long-Term Use of Oral Contraceptives

Research suggests that prolonged use of birth control pills may slightly increase the risk of cervical dysplasia. Although the exact mechanism is not fully understood, hormonal changes may affect cervical cells, making them more susceptible to abnormalities. It’s important for women using long-term contraceptives to maintain regular screening and discuss any concerns with their healthcare provider.

Diet & Nutritional Deficiencies

 Poor nutrition, particularly low levels of essential nutrients like folate, vitamin C, and beta-carotene, may weaken the immune system, reducing its ability to combat HPV infections. Ensuring a balanced diet rich in vitamins and minerals can help support immune health and reduce the risk of HPV-related complications.

Stages of Cervical Dysplasia

Cervical dysplasia is categorized into stages based on the severity and depth of abnormal cell changes. The staging helps determine the appropriate course of treatment and monitoring:

  • Low-Grade Cervical Dysplasia (LSIL or CIN 1): This mild form of dysplasia involves minimal cell changes typically restricted to the cervix’s surface. CIN 1 is common in young women and may resolve naturally without treatment as the immune system clears the infection.
  • High-Grade Cervical Dysplasia (HSIL, CIN 2, or CIN 3): High-grade dysplasia indicates more severe cell changes that penetrate deeper layers of cervical tissue. CIN 2 and CIN 3 dysplasia are associated with a higher risk of progression to cervical cancer if not managed. Treatment is often recommended for high-grade dysplasia to remove the abnormal cells and reduce cancer risk.

Determining the stage of dysplasia helps healthcare providers create tailored care plans that balance monitoring and intervention based on each patient’s needs and health history.

Diagnosing Cervical Dysplasia

The diagnosis of cervical dysplasia typically begins with a cervical screening test (CST), which can identify abnormal cells on the cervix. If abnormal results are detected, further evaluation may be recommended to determine the extent of dysplasia. Diagnostic steps can include:

  • Colposcopy: A colposcopy is an in-depth examination of the cervix using a colposcope, a special microscope that allows the doctor to view cervical cells in greater detail. A mild solution may be applied to the cervix during a colposcopy, highlighting abnormal cells and making it easier to assess the severity of the dysplasia.
  • Biopsy: If suspicious areas are found during a colposcopy, a biopsy may be taken to provide a tissue sample for further analysis. This confirms the stage of dysplasia and helps determine the appropriate treatment.

Regular screening is key to catching cervical dysplasia early. Early detection allows timely treatment, reducing the risk of progression to more serious conditions.

Treatment Options for Cervical Dysplasia

The treatment of cervical dysplasia varies based on the stage of dysplasia, the patient’s age, and overall health. Treatment aims to remove or destroy abnormal cells to prevent progression. The most common treatment options include:

Observation & Monitoring

Doctors may recommend regular monitoring with cervical screening tests and colposcopies for low-grade dysplasia, especially in younger women. This approach, often called “watchful waiting,” allows the immune system a chance to clear the HPV infection and resolve the dysplasia without intervention. If dysplasia persists or worsens, treatment may be recommended.

Loop Electrosurgical Excision Procedure (LEEP)

LEEP uses a thin, electrically charged wire loop to excise abnormal cells from the cervix. This outpatient procedure is minimally invasive, performed under local anesthesia, and has a high success rate for high-grade dysplasia.

Cryotherapy

Cryotherapy freezes and destroys abnormal cells. This treatment is generally used for small, low-grade areas of dysplasia.

Laser Therapy

Laser therapy vaporises abnormal cells using a focused laser. Although less commonly used, it can be effective for targeted areas of high-grade dysplasia.

Post-Treatment and Follow-Up Care

Following treatment, regular monitoring is essential to ensure any recurrence or progression is detected early. Women who have been treated for cervical dysplasia are at an increased risk for recurrence, so continued vigilance is necessary. Post-treatment care may include:

  • Routine Cervical Screening Tests: Regular CST or Pap smears are typically recommended every six months to a year following treatment to ensure that any abnormal cells are detected promptly.
  • HPV Vaccination: For women who have not received it, the HPV vaccine is recommended to prevent infection from the high-risk strains of HPV most commonly associated with dysplasia.

Regular monitoring and preventive care significantly reduce the risk of dysplasia recurrence and progression, helping women maintain optimal reproductive health.

Preventive Measures

Preventive measures play a crucial role in reducing the risk of cervical dysplasia:

  • HPV Vaccination: The HPV vaccine is highly effective in preventing infection from the most dangerous HPV strains and is recommended for preteens and adults up to age 45. Vaccination protects against both cervical dysplasia and cervical cancer.
  • Routine Screening: Regular CST remains one of the best methods for detecting cervical dysplasia early, allowing for timely intervention and reducing cancer risk.
  • Healthy Lifestyle Choices: Maintaining a strong immune system through a balanced diet, regular exercise, and avoiding smoking can help reduce the risk of dysplasia. Practising safe sex is also essential to minimize HPV exposure.

By adopting these preventive strategies, women can help protect their health and lower their risk of cervical dysplasia and related complications.

Contact Empower Now!

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