In-Office Procedures
Endometrial Ablation (NovaSure)
Endometrial ablation is a procedure performed to gently remove the lining of the uterus, called the endometrium, in order to minimize heavy or prolonged bleeding.
The NovaSure procedure can reduce or stop bleeding altogether. It is less invasive than hysterectomy, avoids the potential side effects of hormone treatments, and usually takes less than five minutes to perform.
Colposcopy
A colposcopy is a procedure that allows a health care provider to closely examine a woman's cervix, vagina, and vulva. It uses a lighted, magnifying device called a colposcope. The device is placed at the opening of the vagina. It magnifies the normal view, allowing your provider to see problems that can't be seen by the eyes alone.
A colposcopy is most often used to find abnormal cells in the cervix, vagina, or vulva. It may also be used to:
- Check for genital warts, which may be a sign of an HPV (human papillomavirus) infection. Having HPV may put you at higher risk for developing cervical, vaginal, or vulvar cancer.
- Look for noncancerous growths called polyps
- Check for irritation or inflammation of the cervix
Labial Procedures
- incision and drainage of labial abcesses
- removal of condyloma
- removal of bartholin cyst
IUD Insertion & Removal
An intrauterine device (IUD) is a small plastic T-shaped device used for birth control. It is inserted into the uterus where it stays to prevent pregnancy. An IUD is often inserted by your doctor during your monthly period.
IUD removal is a quick procedure performed by your doctor by using foreceps to grasp the strings of the IUD and gently pull the device out through the vagina.
LEEP
Loop electrosurgical excision procedure (LEEP) is used to diagnose and treat abnormal or cancerous conditions in the cervix and vagina.
An electric current passes through a fine wire loop to cut away a thin layer of abnormal tissue which is sent to the lab for testing.
Hysteroscopy
A hysteroscopy is a procedure that allows a health care provider to look at the inside of a woman's cervix and uterus. It uses a thin tube called a hysteroscope, which is inserted through the vagina. The tube has a camera on it. The camera sends images of the uterus onto a video screen. The procedure can help diagnose and treat causes of abnormal bleeding, uterine diseases, and other conditions.
You may need this test if:
- You are having heavier than normal menstrual periods and/or bleeding between periods.
- You are bleeding after menopause.
- You are having trouble getting or staying pregnant.
- You want a permanent form of birth control.
- You want to remove an IUD.