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Summary
Summary
With the introduction of large loop diathermy excision of the transformation zone in our department, we undertook a prospective study to assess the short term morbidity related to the procedure. Two thousand and eight loop diathermies were performed between 1988 and 1992 and 1696 women (84·5 per cent) returned the relevant ‘symptom’ chart at their subsequent visit. Discharge and bleeding were noted by 72 per cent of women lasting for a median duration of 12 and 7 days respectively. Discomfort or pain was noted in 41·1 per cent with a median duration of 3 days. Antibiotics were prescribed in 13·9 per cent of cases and in these women the duration of bleeding and discomfort was significantly prolonged (P < < 0·01) as was the incidence of bleeding (P< 0·01). The next menstrual period was delayed or early in 30 per cent, heavier in 39 per cent, lighter in 8 per cent and missed in 2 per cent.