Alias Emma
The cauterizing works if your abnormal cells are on the outside of the cervix. If you have abnomal cells in the cervical canal, there are other procedures. I had abnormal cells in my cervical canal that had a high chance of turning into cancer within 1-3 years. We tried a LEEP procedure first which removed some of the cervix. For many women, this procedure is not vey painful (but don't believe your doctor if they say it's not painful at all!). In my case, when the doctor said we'd have to do it again, to make sure it was all out, I could not agree to it. I had a hysterectomy on 12/13/00 and we found that indeed, no abnormal cells had remained from the first LEEP. But, I am happy to know that and not have to worry about this ever again. I am 42 years old and done with childbearing. If you are younger, or don't want a hysterectomy, then the LEEP or something like it will work. If hysterectomy is decided on, I recommend you check out the web site: hystersisters.com where you can get lots of support.