What is a Colposcopy?

If you were advised to have a colposcopy due to an abnormal pap smear you may want to know what you are getting yourself into.   The colposcopy procedure is a painless examination of the cervix and vagina. 

A colposcopy is a method of examining the cervix and tissue surrounding it. An instrument similar to binoculars magnifies the cervix about 15 times. The colposcope allows the doctor to carefully examine the cervix to check for abnormalities.

One of the main reasons a colposcopy is done is an abnormal pap smear. Your need for a colposcopy means that your cervix needs a special examination based on what abnormality you have. Not all abnormal pap smears require a colposcopy. If you do need this procedure done, don’t be too worried.

The Procedure:

This exam is usually done in between your menstrual periods and generally only takes 10-15 minutes to complete.   The colposcopy is done in the same position as a pap smear with the patient lying back on a medical table while a speculum is inserted into your vagina to give the doctor a better view of your cervix.   The doctor will explain the procedure and will then cleanse the cervix with a solution.   The colposcope is used from outside the vagina at a short distance.   The time spent on the colposcopy is used looking through the colposcope for abnormalities.   The doctor will then decide if a biopsy of the cervix is needed. 

Biopsy of the Cervix:

If a biopsy is necessary, the doctor will remove a small piece of tissue from the cervix.   More than one biopsy may be needed if there are several areas that look abnormal.   The tissue that is collected is then sent to a laboratory where it is closely examined.   The doctor or a medical assistant/nurse will contact you will the results.   The biopsy may feel like a pinch or cramp.   There may be some light bleeding following the procedure.   Contact your doctor if the bleeding persists, you have fever or chills, heavy and foul smelling vaginal discharge, or sever pain in your lower abdomen.  

After the Colposcopy:

There are a few instructions to follow if you had a biopsy taken from your colposcopy procedure.   You may want to avoid intercourse for a few days while your cervix heals.   You may use a tampon, unless otherwise instructed by your doctor.   Continue taking medications as usual. 

The Results:

Based on your results from the cervical biopsy, further treatment may be necessary.   You results may come back showing the same results as your abnormal pap smear.   In this case, you may be asked to repeat a pap smear every 6 months to monitor your improvement.    Check with your doctor for your specific treatment plan.