Colposcopy

A colposcopy is a procedure to check your cervix, the wall of your vagina and your vulva for signs of cancerous or pre-cancerous tissue. If you’ve had an abnormal Pap test or a positive HPV test, your provider may recommend colposcopy to get closer to a diagnosis.

What is Colposcopy? #

• Colposcopy is a diagnostic procedure that allows your provider to check your cervix (lower part of your uterus) and the wall of your vagina for abnormal tissue.

• During the procedure, a special lighted microscope called a colposcope magnifies the tissue that lines your cervix and vagina.

• If your provider sees any abnormalities, they can take tissue samples (biopsies) that can be tested in a lab for cancerous or precancerous cells.

Uses of Colposcopy #

• Colposcopies primarily check for cancer cells or cells that could become cancer if not treated (also called cervical dysplasia).

• Your provider will look for these cells in your cervix, vagina and external genitals (vulva).

• Colposcopies can also test for genital warts and noncancerous growths called polyps.

• Sometimes, your provider might recommend a colposcopy to evaluate other symptoms like abnormal vaginal bleeding or vulvar itching.

How to prepare for a Colposcopy? #

• Share your pregnancy status with your healthcare provider.

• You can have a colposcopy during pregnancy, but you may be at greater risk for bleeding if your provider performs a biopsy during the procedure.

• Discuss these concerns with your provider.

• Schedule your colposcopy for a time when you’re not menstruating.

• You can have the procedure during your period.

• Still, your provider will have an easier time viewing your cervix if you’re not bleeding.

• Avoid any kind of vaginal penetration for 48 hours before your colposcopy.

• Avoid intercourse and penetration with fingers or sex toys.

• Don’t use tampons or vaginal medications, like creams or suppositories.

• All these things can alter the results of your colposcopy.

• Take a pain reliever on the day of the procedure.

• Medications containing acetaminophen (Tylenol) or ibuprofen (Advil, Motrin) can make you more comfortable during the procedure.

Procedure of Colposcopy #

A colposcopy is usually no more uncomfortable than having a Pap test. You won’t need any anesthesia or pain medicine. Here’s what to expect:

• You’ll lie on an examining table with your feet in stirrups.

• Your provider will insert an instrument called a speculum that will widen your vagina so that your cervix is visible.

• Your provider will look through the colposcope to take a closer look at your vagina and cervix. The colposcope has a built-in light and binocular-like lenses that make it easy for your provider to view your cervix while remaining seated at your feet. The colposcope will remain outside your vagina the whole time.

• Your provider will use a cotton swab to apply an acetic acid solution (vinegar solution) to your cervix. You may notice a slight burning sensation. The solution helps highlight any suspicious areas.

What happens after the Colposcopy? #

You should be able to resume normal activities immediately following your appointment. If you didn’t have a biopsy, you might notice some spotting for the next two days.

If you had a biopsy, you might experience:

• Light vaginal bleeding that lasts a few days.

• Slight pain in your vagina that lasts a few days.

• Vaginal discharge that may appear black or brown (from the acetic solution).

What do the results of my Colposcopy mean? #

• The results of your colposcopy and biopsy will determine if you need any treatment.

• About 40% of people receive results that report no sign of abnormal cells.

• About 60% need treatment of some kind to address an abnormality.

• Examples of abnormalities include masses on the cervix, vagina or vulva.