Dysplasia: Targeted treatment of cell changes in the genital area

Dysplasia is a change in the cells of the cervix and the external genitalia. Although dysplasia is not malignant, it is considered a precancerous condition and must be properly investigated. At the Dysplasia Centre at Bethesda Hospital, we examine such changes and provide you with the best advice and state-of-the-art medical care.

The most common indication of dysplasia is an abnormal cancer smear at the annual gynaecological check-up. We clarify these findings by means of a colposcopy (examination with a magnifying glass) and decide together with you how to proceed. If surgical removal is planned, we will discuss this procedure with you in detail. Let us advise you - we will be happy to take care of your complaints.

In the dysplasia/vulva consultation, we provide women with empathetic advice on the following topics:

  • Cell changes (dysplasia) on the cervix, in the vagina, on the labia and/or in the perineal area, e.g. precancerous lesions, benign cell changes such as warts or cancers
  • Itching, burning and pain on the vulva and in the vagina
  • Chronic genital GvHD (graft-versus-host disease) following donor stem cell transplantation
  • Skin diseases of the vulva and vagina (joint consultation with a dermatologist)
  • Questions about the anatomy of the genitals

The basis of our diagnosis of dysplasia is colposcopy, the examination of the cervix using a magnifying glass. Based on the images and - if there are any abnormalities - a tissue sample, we decide together with you how to proceed. For the removal of dysplasia, we use the gentlest possible therapies - we have had very good experiences with laser removal or electric snare (LLETZ conisation).

We are here for you.

In the consultation hours of the Dysplasia Centre, skin diseases in the labia area are examined, sometimes together with a dermatologist from the University Hospital Basel. Various, often diffuse complaints in this area, which are accompanied by itching, burning or pain, can also be clarified here.

The HPV vaccination is also part of our range of services. It helps against various forms of the human papillomavirus (HPV), which is often the cause of cervical disease. HPV can also cause other types of cancer, e.g. in the vagina, vulva or anus. The FOPH recommends vaccination for adolescents and young adults aged 11 to 26 - ideally before their first sexual intercourse.

We are here for you.

Our specialists are also available around the clock in an emergency. If you are not sure whether it is an emergency, simply give us a call - we will clarify together whether you should come to us or whether we can help you over the phone.

Contact the emergency room

We take care of the following emergencies:

  • For all gynaecological and obstetric emergencies.
  • You have been treated by us and severe symptoms occur at home.
  • You have had an operation at our clinic and complications suddenly arise at home.

Are you not sure whether it really is an emergency and whether you have come to the right place? Just give us a call.

Under certain circumstances, there may be longer waiting times - we ask for your understanding. Life-threatening situations are treated immediately.

«We attach great importance to professional medical, nursing and therapeutic support. However, human warmth and empathy are just as important to us.»


Dr J. Humburg, Head of Gynaecology & Head of the Clinic for Women's Medicine

Gynaecological diseases

Our gynaecologists have compiled a list of the most common diseases that we treat at our clinic. Find out about symptoms, frequency and treatment options here. We are happy to take time for you - the disease database is in no way intended to replace a personal consultation.

YOUR TEAM AT BETHESDA

The best interdisciplinary treatment

Because gynaecological diseases are often very complex, we work closely with the teams in related fields. Together, we work hard for you - so you are always in good hands with us and receive the treatment that is tailored to your condition. We work on an interdisciplinary basis in the following areas:

FAQs about the dysplasia centre

Do you have any uncertainties or issues that concern you within our speciality? We have compiled the most frequently asked questions about dysplasia, answered by our medical experts.

Do you have any other questions that are not answered here?
Please feel free to contact us - we will be happy to help.

Endometrial carcinoma develops from the lining of the uterus (endometrium) and primarily affects women after the menopause. This malignant tumour grows very slowly, which is why there is a good chance that it can be detected at an early stage and treated immediately. Apart from bleeding disorders, it is usually asymptomatic. Uterine cancer should not be confused with cervical cancer, which are two different types of cancer.

The most common treatment method is surgery. If the diagnosis of endometrial carcinoma is confirmed, the ovaries and fallopian tubes must be completely removed in addition to the uterus. Affected women can then no longer have children. If a woman experiences bleeding disorders after the menopause, this should be clarified by a specialist as soon as possible. Early detection is crucial for all types of cancer. Talk to us!

In the early stages, the cancer hardly causes any symptoms. The first signs are as follows:

  • Bleeding disorders
  • foul-smelling discharge from the vagina
  • Bleeding after the menopause (menopause)
  • in women before the menopause: Intermenstrual bleeding or unusually heavy bleeding
  • often asymptomatic, especially in the early stages

This malignant disease of the uterus is less dangerous than other types of cancer. The tumour grows slowly and is usually detected early. With surgical treatment, the chances of recovery are good - the survival rate is high compared to other types of cancer.

Uterine cancer can often be detected by means of an ultrasound of the uterus and abdominal organs. This is often followed by a hysteroscopy. Biopsies, i.e. tissue examinations, are also common. This is done on an outpatient basis using a so-called pipelle, a thin rod with which tissue samples are taken from the uterine cavity. These samples are then analysed in the laboratory.

The main treatment is surgery. The uterus, fallopian tubes and ovaries must be completely removed. Sentinel lymph nodes are now also surgically removed if they are affected. These are lymph nodes that are closest to the tumour and may indicate carcinoma. The response rates for operations are up to 60 %.

In the early stages, the cancer hardly causes any symptoms. The first signs are as follows:

  • Bleeding disorders
  • foul-smelling discharge from the vagina
  • Bleeding after the menopause (menopause)
  • in women before the menopause: Intermenstrual bleeding or unusually heavy bleeding
  • often asymptomatic, especially in the early stages

Early detection is crucial for all types of cancer. Talk to us!

Your advantages at Bethesda Hospital

We provide interdisciplinary excellence in medicine, care and therapy, promote innovation and are at the cutting edge of research and technology. Personalised care in a family atmosphere, our excellent hotel facilities and the quiet location in the park support your recovery.

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