Hi Kelly

The risk of any side effects from this procedure are tiny, compared to the benefit of removing cells. Having had cervical cancer I belong to some private Facebook groups where this question was actually discussed yesterday. There was a poll, and, out of 100 or so ladies who responded, 95 had no issues following treatment. 

The reason for no sex, or indeed tampons or swimming for 6 weeks afterwards is to minimise the risk of infection and give time for healing. I know lots of ladies who’ve had this and not reported any lasting problems, and it would be extremely rare, so I’m not sure where you’re reading all these stories and articles. Hopefully they are legitimate sources of information but the internet can be unreliable. Some women do their best to persuade others not to have treatment but try to cure themselves, so I prefer to rely on real experiences in support groups I’m in from ladies who have been through this. 

You should be able to have a completely normal sex life after he treatment, so try not to get too caught up with stories on the internet! 

Hi , i have recently had the loop done in April this yeari am only 26  and i am having some of these problems and i am finding it hard really hard to enjoy having sex with my partner i am constantly scared that it is going to hurt and it is uncomftable and dry i was wondering if you did have any of  side affects or has yours gone back to normal. thakyou. x

Hi Alice,

So glad to see your message as it's so important we talk about these things! First of all well done for going through the loop procedure. Not the nicest thing to do but it's done for good reasons. I can only imagine how you're feeling, as I was terrified of this myself especially after reading half the internet. For me it turned out that fear was the only side effect though! I wasn't in a relationship/having sex at the time and first had sex probably 4months after loop- and had no difficulties then or since (almost a year now) . My libido has also not changed at all. If you only had it recently chances are it's still healing, give it time. Sexual pleasure, arousal and libido have so much to do with our mental state, so if you're scared before it even happens it makes sense you'll experience dryness and therefore discomfort. I know it's easier said than done, not to feel afraid, but it's worth keeping in mind that's the reason. It's also understandable to feel a little distressed after having quite an intrusive procedure. I'd recommend making lube your bestfriend - I personally always find it makes things better even if all seems to work fine. And perhaps spending extra time on foreplay and relaxing before things happen.

Of course if pain and discomfort continues it's probably best to check with doctor. 

I hope things will resolve for you soon! Best wishes x