Colposcopy is a special method of examining the cervix and surrounding tissue. An instrument called a colposcope magnifies the cervix about 15 times, allowing the clinician to check carefully for abnormalities. When an abnormality is found, a biopsy (tissue sample) is taken, improving the accuracy of diagnosis. There are a number of reasons that colposcopy may be recommended, including an abnormal Pap smear, an unusual appearing area on your cervix, or the presence of certain medical conditions. Your need for colposcopy merely means that your cervix needs careful examination.
What is colposcopy?
Colposcopy is a painless examination of the cervix and vagina with a colposcope. This exam is usually done between menstrual periods and generally takes less than ten minutes. A woman lies down in the position used to take a Pap smear and a speculum is inserted into the vagina to give a view of the cervix and vagina. After cleansing the cervix with a special solution, the clinician uses the colposcope from outside the vagina, like binoculars. Most of the time is spent just looking at the cervix and vagina through the colposcope.
What is a colposcope?
A colposcope is like a set of binoculars with a bright light mounted on a stand, used to look at the cervix and vagina under magnification.
Why are some women advised to have colposcopy?
If a Pap smear indicates the presence of abnormal cells or if the cervix looks abnormal, colposcopy may help in diagnosis and in planning of treatment.
It is impossible to diagnose diseases or other problems simply by looking at the cervix with the naked eye. A magnified view is necessary to find any abnormalities, or to show that the cervical areas in question are not cause for concern. When abnormal areas are found, colposcopy helps to determine the areas where biopsies should be taken.
What is a biopsy of the cervix?
Biopsy is the removal of a small piece of tissue from the cervix using a specially designed instrument. One or more biopsies may be necessary during your colposcopy. This tissue is then sent to a laboratory where it is examined under a microscope by a doctor. No examination or test is 100% accurate, and no guarantee can be made about the correctness of the diagnosis.
Is a biopsy painful?
Most women describe the procedure as feeling like a sharp pinch. Some experience a menstrual-type cramp. There may be slight spotting or bleeding for a few days after a cervical biopsy, especially if more than one biopsy is done. A dark vaginal discharge may also appear for a few days after the biopsy.
What should I do after colposcopy?
There are only a few special instructions after colposcopy:
- If a biopsy is taken, you should wait 2 weeks before having vaginal intercourse to allow the cervix to heal. If a biopsy is not taken, you can resume sexual activity whenever you want to.
- If you take the Pill or other medications, you should take them as usual.
- You may shower or bathe as soon as you want.
- Do not use a tampon for your next period, unless you are told something different at the time of colposcopy.
- Call the clinic if you have:
- Bleeding (heavier than spotting) at a time you are not having your period;
- Severe pain in the lower abdomen;
- Fever or chills; and/or
- Heavy, yellow-colored, or bad smelling vaginal discharge.
What treatment will I need?
Sometimes the examination shows that no immediate treatment is necessary and that you need further follow-up only. If treatment is needed, we can usually provide it at NYUHC-WHS. In the event your condition requires more specialized evaluation or treatment than we can provide, we will refer you to a physician consultant for further management.