Cervical Dysplasia: An Integrative Approach

Cervical dysplasia is one of the most common women’s health concerns seen in integrative medicine. It refers to abnormal cell changes on the cervix—typically caused by persistent high-risk strains of the Human Papilloma Virus (HPV). Over 90% of sexually active adults carry at least one strain of HPV, and while most infections clear on their own, more than a dozen HPV strains are considered high-risk because they can lead to moderate or high-grade dysplasia. If left untreated and unmonitored, cervical dysplasia has the potential to progress to cervical cancer over time.

This is why understanding test results, having access to early detection, and developing a comprehensive treatment plan are so important.

Naturopathic doctors take a whole-body approach: we look not only at the abnormal cells themselves but also at the terrain—immune function, nutrient status, inflammation, stress physiology, vaginal microbiome balance, and overall systemic health.

1. How Cervical Dysplasia Is Found: Pap Tests & Colposcopy

In Ontario, cervical screening begins at age 25 and continues until age 69 for people with a cervix.

Cervical dysplasia is typically detected through two conventional diagnostic tools: the Pap test and colposcopy. As of March 3rd, 2025, Ontario’s screening protocol now begins with HPV testing at OHIP-covered facilities. HPV strains are reported as either type 16 or 18 or non-16/18. Any abnormal result triggers follow-up cytology (Pap test) and colposcopy.

Pap Test Grades (Bethesda System)

• ASC-US – Mild atypical cells

• LSIL – Low-grade changes, often due to early or transient HPV

• HSIL / ASC-H – Higher-grade changes requiring further evaluation

• AGC – Abnormal glandular cells

Colposcopy & Biopsy Grades

• CIN 1 – Mild dysplasia

• CIN 2 – Moderate dysplasia

• CIN 3 – Severe dysplasia

• Carcinoma in situ (CIS) – Full-thickness abnormal cells confined to the epithelium

2. Naturopathic Medicine: A Multidimensional Approach

When cervical dysplasia is diagnosed, conventional recommendations may include watch-and-wait monitoring, LEEP, cone biopsy, or hysterectomy. At The Freeman Clinic, naturopathic doctors provide timely, integrative strategies to address persistent HPV infections using a holistic approach designed to complement—never delay—gynecological follow-up.

A customized cervical-healing protocol may include:

• Stress-reduction techniques and nervous system support

• Targeted supplementation

• Vaginal suppositories for tissue healing

• Dietary strategies for immune and inflammatory balance

• Lifestyle changes to support viral clearance

• Intravenous nutrient therapy to optimize cellular repair

• Microbiome-restoration protocols

• Inflammation- and oxidative stress-modulating therapies

• Escharotic treatments

3. Escharotic Therapy: A Naturopathic Option for Cervical Dysplasia

Escharotic therapy is a specialized, non-surgical treatment used by licensed naturopathic doctors and based on the protocol of Dr. Tori Hudson, ND. It is only offered after a full consultation and assessment to determine suitability. Escharotic therapy is never used in isolation; it is integrated into a broader, individualized treatment plan.

What Escharotic Therapy Is

This therapy uses a speculum device and carefully prepared applications of zinc chloride and Sanguinaria canadensis (bloodroot). These agents gently exfoliate dysplastic cells on the surface of the cervix while stimulating healthy tissue regeneration. The process supports immune-mediated viral clearance and minimizes scar-tissue formation. One limitation is that it treats only the ectocervix (outer surface) and cannot address dysplasia that involves the cervical canal.

The Takeaway

Escharotic therapy offers a natural, targeted option for women seeking a non-surgical, regenerative approach. The Freeman Clinic integrates evidence-informed naturopathic medicine with conventional care pathways to support healing, enhance surveillance, and empower women with cervical dysplasia to make confident, informed decisions about their health.

Book a Discovery Call with Dr. Allison Freeman, ND