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Colposcopy is an examination that allows us to carefully and accurately examine the cervix, vagina, and external genitalia of women.

When do I need to have a colposcopy?

We may recommend that you have a colposcopy in cases where:

  • The results of the Pap test detected abnormal cells in the cervix, caused by HPV (Human Papillomavirus)
  • The results of the Pap test were unclear and require further investigation (e.g., ASCUS diagnosis)
  • The patient has a history of HPV-related abnormalities
  • The patient is HPV positive or has genital warts
  • There are symptoms of menstrual disorders, such as unusual vaginal bleeding

In addition, beyond precancerous changes in the vagina, cervix, and vulva, colposcopy can reveal conditions such as cervicitis (inflammation of the cervix).

How exactly is colposcopy performed?

The procedure is practically the same as the Pap smear, except that a special instrument called a colposcope is also used. The colposcope is nothing more than a tool that has bright light and magnifying lenses that allow us to see areas with abnormalities that are not visible to the naked eye in greater detail. The colposcope does not come into contact with your body but is placed a few centimetres away from the vaginal opening.

Overall, colposcopy is not painful but may cause some discomfort or pain similar to menstrual cramps if abnormalities are detected and biopsies need to be taken.

Which day of the cycle can I have a colposcopy?

To get accurate results and prepare for colposcopy, we recommend:

  • Avoid scheduling the colposcopy during your period
  • Abstain from sexual intercourse for 1-2 days before the colposcopy
  • Do not use tampons, menstrual cups, or vaginal medications (suppositories) for 1-2 days before the colposcopy

Colposcopy can be performed without any problems if you are wearing an IUD (intrauterine device) or are pregnant, as long as you have informed us.

How will we help you?

Colposcopy is an examination that brings anxiety, awkwardness, and discomfort to most women. If you need to have a colposcopy, it is important to visit us before the examination so that we can inform you about the procedure and answer any questions you may have.

The examination process is short, just 10-15 minutes. We will help you overcome the awkwardness and anxiety that we know accompanies it. There are various ways to turn colposcopy into a positive experience, allowing a loved one to accompany you and, of course, performing the examination without haste and with breaks if you need them. If no biopsy is taken, we discuss the findings of the colposcopy at that moment and decide on further monitoring. If a biopsy is needed, we will have to wait for the results to see how to proceed and choose the right treatment for you.

Sources:

https://www.mayoclinic.org/tests-procedures/colposcopy/about/pac-20385036

https://www.nhs.uk/conditions/colposcopy/