Colposcopy

Colposcopy is an examination of the cervix and the walls of the vagina. It is performed using a lighted microscope, called a colposcope, designed to give a magnified view of tissue lining the cervix and vagina. Aided by light and magnification and using simple techniques to highlight abnormal cells, the doctor is able to sample areas of abnormality for biopsy (removal of tissue for diagnostic evaluation).

Preparation:

No preparation required. But it does take longer than a pap smear.

What should you do before your appointment?

You do not have to do much to prepare for a colposcopy. Here are 2 things you should do to make things easier:

1- Schedule your colposcopy for when you won’t have your period. That makes it easier to see the cervix.

2- Don’t douche, use condoms, put medicine in your vagina, or have vaginal sex for at least 24 hours before your appointment.

Procedure:

You will be reclining on the examination table with legs elevated (as you do for Gynecological examination). The procedure usually takes between 10 minutes depending on your pap test result, previous history of cervical disease, and if doctor needs to perform a cervical biopsy for microscopic examination.

After placing a speculum to hold open the vagina, a mild solution of acetic acid (Vinegar) is swabbed on the cervix to wash away mucous secretions and to highlight abnormal areas on the surface.

The doctor will then perform a visual examination of the cervix and the vagina and make a decision to proceed with collection of biopsy sample (s) or not. The doctor may apply a liquid solution (Monsel’s) to the bleeding areas to stop bleeding which may result in a dark flaky, coffee ground discharge for a few days.

Risks of the procedure:

Bleeding. Since the procedure involves removal of tissue, there may be some bleeding. Normally, this is controlled with the application of topical medicines during the procedure. Rarely, heavy bleeding may show up as a late complication within 5 to 10 days after procedure. If heavy bleeding occurs, we may ask you to return to the office for further treatment.

Infection. The cervix and vaginal areas are normally fairly resistant to infection following biopsy, however occasionally does occur and may present as unusual pain, discharge, heavy or excessive bleeding, or bad odor. To decrease the risk of infection, it is recommended that you do not use tampons, or have sexual intercourse for a week after colposcopy with biopsy.