Is Trichloroacetic Acid Used During Colposcopy Harmful?

Posted on Sun, 10 Jan 2016

Medically reviewed by Ask A Doctor - 24x7 Medical Review Team

Sun, 10 Jan 2016 Answered on

Tue, 16 Feb 2016 Last reviewed on

Question : I went in to see a new gynecologist. She was not in the building and I was given a PA to due my Pap smear and checkup. Long story short, she wanted to do a colposcopy because I tested positive for HPV but my pap was normal. She also had me get an ultrasound and everything was great. No polyps, no lining problems. She did the colposcopy and instead of using acedic acid she used trichloroacedicacid. I was burning. She proceeded to take a biopsy of my uterus. Told me to get dressed and she would be back. She did not call doctor. She burned my cervix vagina and labia. How long does this take to heal? I was not contacted until 3 days later

Answered by Dr. Manisha Jain (13 minutes later)

Brief Answer:
It will take 15-20 days

Detailed Answer:
Hello Mam, thanks for trusting health care magic.
I understand your health issue and anxiety about it.
It takes about 15-20 days for the burnt area to re-epithelialised completely.
Till then there can be excessive watery discharge and and slight discomfort so don't be hassled because of these new symptoms as they are a part of healing process.
Keep taking the antibiotic and gel as advised as it will prevent superadded infection and hasten healing.
You can discuss the report anytime on this forum.
Regards
Dr Manisha

Above answer was peer-reviewed by : Dr. Chakravarthy Mazumdar

Follow up: Dr. Manisha Jain (5 minutes later)

Will it heal with no permanent damage!The doctor saw me three days later and apologized that she was not called. She told me I had second degree burns and is being very kind about my care.

Answered by Dr. Manisha Jain (4 hours later)

Brief Answer:
Follow up after 2 weeks will tell us the outcome

Detailed Answer:
Yes dear most likely if will heal fully and properly. I understand your agony about the issue but if all goes well nothing to worry. Go for a follow up visit after 2 weeks.
All the best.

Above answer was peer-reviewed by : Dr. Chakravarthy Mazumdar