Dr. Brenda Bithoney, a naturopathic doctor specializing in women’s health at Anasa Personalized Medicine, in Providence, Rhode Island, is pioneering an integrative approach to cervical dysplasia with the introduction of escharotic therapy—a plant-based, non-surgical alternative to the conventional loop electrosurgical excision procedure (LEEP). She is currently the first practitioner in the state to offer this specialized treatment.

Escharotic therapy, named after the Greek word eschar—referring to the shedding of tissue—targets abnormal cervical cells often linked to the human papillomavirus (HPV). The therapy involves a series of topical applications using herbal compounds, such as bloodroot, applied directly to the cervix to support the natural sloughing of unhealthy cells.

Before treatment is recommended, patients undergo a comprehensive evaluation, as the therapy may not be appropriate for all types or grades of dysplasia. For eligible candidates, the protocol typically includes 12 in-office sessions over a period of six to 12 weeks, along with vaginal suppositories and internal naturopathic support tailored to optimize immune and cervical health.

Evidence supporting this approach includes a 2014 case study by the National College of Natural Medicine and the Helfgott Research Institute, in Oregon. The study tracked a woman with severe cervical dysplasia that underwent 10 escharotic sessions in combination with oral supplements and vaginal therapies. Her pap smears at both six-month and two-year follow-ups showed no remaining signs of abnormality.

This method reflects a growing demand for less invasive, holistic options in women’s health care—particularly for individuals looking to avoid surgical intervention when safely possible.

Location: 245 Waterman St., Ste. 308, Providence, RI. For more information or to make an appointment, call 401-270-1742, email [email protected] or visit AnasaMedicine.com.