Division of Gynecology
The Division of Gynecology, part of the OB/GYN Department, offers exceptional patient care, research programs, and education and training opportunities.
Cervical & Lower Genital Tract Dysplasia
Trusted diagnosis and treatment for precancerous cells
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Individualized Reproductive Health
The Division of Gynecology at Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center (BIDMC) provides individualized care for your reproductive health in a safe, respectful and welcoming environment. We care for people of all genders in our clinic. We offer the full range of screening and treatment options to all.
Partnership with Gynecologic Oncology
In partnership with BIDMC’s Gynecologic Oncology Program, we provide support and guidance to patients going through treatment for a variety of precancerous conditions.
Treatments We Offer
Our team will be with you every step of the way to ensure you understand your treatment options and care plan. We focus our services on preventive treatments to avoid the development of cancer.
Depending on your diagnosis, health history and preferences, your treatment plan may include these steps:
- Regular monitoring of any abnormal cells
- Medical management
- Laser and other ablative therapy to destroy abnormal cells
- Surgery to remove these cells, including minimally invasive surgery
It’s important to understand that, in most cases, dysplasia does not become cancer. However, if you do receive a cancer diagnosis at any point, you can rely on BIDMC for exceptional, comprehensive care for gynecologic cancer or anal-rectal cancer.
Understanding Dysplasia
Lower genital tract dysplasia is a condition in which one or many parts of the lower genital tract develops abnormal cells. These cells may go away on their own, causing no health problems, or they may become precancerous.
These make up the lower genital tract:
- Cervix (opening of the uterus, or womb)
- Vagina (tunnel-like structure that connects the cervix to the vulva)
- Vulva and labia (external genitalia)
- Anus (the opening of the rectum to the outside of the body)
Increased Risk with Human Papillomavirus (HPV)
Having human papillomavirus (HPV) raises your risk of developing dysplasia. There also are certain HPV strains that pose even higher risks. Ask your primary care doctor about steps you can take to manage your risk. Discuss whether getting the HPV vaccine makes sense for you.
BIDMC Dysplasia Center
The Dysplasia Center at BIDMC is the first of its kind in New England. Our providers offer comprehensive care dedicated to the entire lower genital tract. Our specialists offer the most advanced diagnosis and treatment for these conditions:
- Abnormal cells of the lower genital tract (cervical, vaginal, vulvar and anal) associated with HPV
- Precancerous lesions
More About Dysplasia
Advanced Diagnostic Services
If you come to our clinic for diagnostic care, one of our expert gynecologists will perform a Pap smear and pelvic exam of the vulva, vagina, cervix or anus. We will examine and biopsy the areas for abnormal cells. Your provider also may use a microscope or special magnifying instrument to examine the tissue more closely or test for HPV.
We offer these and other diagnostic tests:
- Biopsy — Removal of a small tissue sample for lab analysis
- Colposcopy — Close examination of the cervix
- High-resolution anoscopy (HRA) — Close examination of the anus
Specialty Screening Services
At BIDMC, we provide regular screenings to examine and remove abnormal cells. In most cases, your primary care provider or gynecologist will perform these screenings and lab tests as part of your preventive wellness care. Screening services may include these and others:
- Pap smear (collecting cell samples from the cervix and surrounding areas)
- Pelvic exam
- Anal Pap smear (collecting cell samples from the anal canal in certain high-risk groups)
- HPV test (via Pap smear and/or Anal Pap smear)
- DARE (Digital Anal Rectal Exam)
Personalized Treatment Planning
We’ll work with your primary care doctor and other providers to create a personalized treatment plan for you. Your care team will discuss treatment options with you based on your test results.
Nurse Navigator
Our center’s dedicated nurse navigator provides guidance to help you understand test results and access all the care you need. This may include these and other services:
- Specialist referrals
- Tests
- Procedures
- Coordinated follow-up care
Meet the Team
Our OB/GYN specialists at the Dysplasia Center are committed to providing the safest, highest quality care to patients throughout the Greater Boston region.
Support Team
Additional Services
Your gynecologist works with providers throughout the BIDMC care network to ensure that you receive comprehensive care. Explore other providers who may be involved in your care.
