Colposcopy

A COLPOSCOPY IS A DIAGNOSTIC PROCEDURE TO CLOSELY EXAMINE THE CERVIX AND VAGINAL AREA FOR ANY DISEASE OR ABNORMALITY.

The following information discusses in detail what’s involved in the procedure, why it’s used, and the
risks involved.

Why is it Used?

A colposcopy is used after a woman has had an abnormal pap smear. Some of the conditions it’s used to detect include cervical cancer, vaginal cancer, and inflammation of the cervix. Since a colposcopy can be used to detect cancer it is sometimes used in conjunction with a biopsy. 

How is the Procedure Done?

The procedure is completed in a physician’s office and usually takes about 10 or 15 minutes. A speculum is placed in the vaginal area to hold open the walls of the vagina, and the colposcope is used to shine a light into the vagina to make the abnormal cells easier to examine.

What Are the Risks?

There are generally few risks when having a colposcopy, and those will be discussed prior to the procedure. It’s recommended not to schedule a colposcopy during the menstrual cycle or for a day or two after having intercourse.

Understanding the Results

If a biopsy is taken during the colposcopy the sample will be tested in a laboratory. Results may require immediate treatment or another colposcopy may be ordered to confirm or re-evaluate what was previously detected.  Depending on the results of the biopsy further treatment may or may not be necessary.