Escharotic treatment
A complementary, local treatment of the cervix, alongside and in consultation with regular care, used for over 25 years in the United States. Usually no scar tissue.
What is escharotic treatment?
The escharotic treatment is a local treatment of the cervix where a specially formulated tincture is applied to the abnormal area. This tincture contains ingredients such as turmeric and is applied in a targeted way, with the aim of treating the local tissue while sparing the surrounding healthy tissue as much as possible.
Escharotic treatments have been used in the US for over 25 years by multiple naturopathic doctors. The treatment usually leaves no scar tissue, which can be a consideration for some women alongside, for example, a LEEP procedure.
is how long escharotic treatment has been used in the US as a complementary treatment, usually without scar tissue.
How does the treatment work?
With escharotic treatment, the tincture is applied in a targeted way to the abnormal area, with the aim of treating the local tissue. The treatment process is as follows:
The treatment process step by step
Intake and examination
Intake usually takes place over the phone through an extensive conversation. This is followed by additional information regarding treatment options. During the first appointment for a treatment, the cervix is carefully examined using imaging, both before and after the first treatment. We also prefer to perform an HPV test to determine the type of HPV virus(es) and the viral load (number of viruses per cell). We discuss this and create a plan together.
Treatment
A diluted and combined tincture is applied to the cervix for a short duration. Afterward, the tincture is thoroughly removed with calendula.
Follow-up treatments
Treatments take place 1 to 2 times per week for several months. The duration of treatment depends on the frequency of treatments, the type of HPV viruses, the viral load, and the immune system's response.
Control smear test
About 4 weeks after the last treatment, a smear test is performed to evaluate the result. In the meantime, HPV tests are taken to monitor the effect of the treatments.
Monitoring
Imaging, HPV tests with viral load determination, and smear tests for follow-up.
Follow up
We consider monitoring very important. If the HPV test no longer detects the virus, we schedule a smear test one month later. If that result is also good (PAP 1 and HPV negative), we want another smear test 6 months later. If a test shows PAP 1 and no HPV three times, we advise regular checks via your general practitioner (GP)/national screening program depending on your individual situation.
Who is it suitable for?
The escharotic treatment is suitable for precancerous stages of abnormal cells, specifically:
- CIN 1: Mild abnormalities. This is the ideal time to start treatment when the abnormalities are still superficial.
- CIN 2: Moderate abnormalities. For CIN 2 too, escharotic treatment can be used in a complementary way, alongside and in consultation with the gynecologist.
- Watchful waiting situations: When the gynecologist advises to wait and see, escharotic treatment can be used in a complementary way, alongside and in consultation with the gynecologist.
Important: For CIN 3, gynecological treatment (LEEP procedure/conization) is necessary. Escharotic treatments do not replace a LEEP procedure.
Safety and careful monitoring
The safety of escharotic treatment is a frequently asked question, and rightly so. It is important to know:
- The treatment usually leaves no scar tissue. This can be particularly relevant for women with a desire to have children.
- The treatment is performed by a BIG-registered doctor (Jose van Ditmarsch, general practitioner) and/or the experienced practice assistant, affiliated with the AVIG (Association of Doctors for Integrative Medicine).
- The course is followed via imaging, HPV tests with viral load determination, and follow-up smear tests.
We emphasize: escharotic treatment works complementary to regular care, not as a replacement. We are happy to collaborate with the gynecologist.
Would you like to know if escharotic treatment is right for you?
Schedule an intake interview and discover if this treatment fits your situation. The first consultation lasts 1-1.5 hours.
Schedule an intakeWhy no self-treatment?
We strongly discourage self-treatment and do not participate in it. Escharotic treatment requires precise knowledge of the cervix, correct dosing and application, and professional monitoring of the result. This is not something you can safely do at home.
Veelgestelde vragen
Is escharotic treatment painful?
How many treatments do I need?
Is escharotic treatment reimbursed?
Can I go back to work after the treatment?
Is escharotic treatment an alternative to a LEEP procedure?
Who performs the treatment?
Ready for the next step?
Schedule an intake and discover which holistic treatment suits you best.
Schedule an intake