Pre-Procedure Instructions
How you prepare for your procedure:
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Avoid scheduling your procedure during your period (unless it is an IUD insertion)
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Don't have vaginal intercourse 24 hours before your procedure
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Don't use tampons the day before your procedure
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If you are having a vulvar or vaginal biopsy please purchase a tube of Aquaphor over the counter from your pharmacy
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Coping with anxiety before your procedure:
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Many women experience anxiety as they wait for their procedure. Anxiety can make you feel crappy and just uncomfortable. You may find it hard to concentrate, and you may have difficulty sleeping.
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Read up on the procedure you are having so you know what you can expect. Some of the procedures we perform in the office are endometrial biopsy, colposcopy, EndoSee office hysteroscopy, IUD insertion and removal, cryoablation of the cervix, LEEP procedure, and Nexplanon insertion and removal.
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Write down any questions or concerns you have about the procedure, and ask Dr. Frey to review them with you before your procedure begins.
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Find activities that help you relax, such as exercise, meditation, and being with friends and family.
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Consider bringing a portable music device, it is OK to listen to music quietly during the exam. Women may experience less pain and anxiety if they listen to music during colposcopy.
Pre-procedure medication protocol
Some procedures require pre-medication.
Several prescriptions may be sent electronically to your pharmacy.
- Misoprostol (Cytotec): a medication that helps to open (dilate) the cervix before a procedure. This makes performing some procedures easier and more comfortable.
-Valium: a medication that helps you relax prior to the procedure.
-Ibuprofen: a medication that helps with discomfort from the procedure.
How to take Misoprostol (Cytotec):
-Use this medication the night before the procedure​​
-Before bed, empty your bladder
-Take the medication marked Misoprostol. The dose will either be 200 micrograms or 400 micrograms depending on your weight and the procedure. Some patients don't need this medication.
-Take the tablets and place them between your gum and your cheek on either side of your mouth.
-set a timer for 30 minutes and allow the medication to dissolve.
-After 30 minutes have passed you can wash and swallow down the remaining medication with a glass of water.
-You could instead place the pills inside the vagina, and push them all the way to the back of the vagina. Then wash your hands and go to bed.
-Either way works just as well. You may have cramps during the night, this is normal.
The morning of the procedure:
-90 minutes before your scheduled appointment take the other medications/tablets prescribed to you. This will be Valium and Ibuprofen.
You should be driven to the office and driven home by an accompanying adult if you take any of these medications. You should not drive to the office or home from the office.
This is a pic of our procedure room. Don't be nervous, we will take good care of you. Our motto is comprehensive, compassionate care. We take this seriously.
