Colposcopy?
A colposcopy (kol-POS-kuh-pee) is a simple procedure that lets your healthcare provider get a close-up look at your cervix, vagina, and vulva. It’s typically done after an abnormal Pap test result or if your provider sees an area of concern during a regular pelvic exam.
The procedure uses a special magnifying instrument called a colposcope. It looks like a pair of binoculars on a stand and stays outside your body. The goal is to examine the cells of the cervix more closely and determine if any further treatment is needed.
To ensure the best results, please follow these guidelines:
- Scheduling: Try to schedule your colposcopy for a time when you are not on your period. If you start your period unexpectedly, please call our office to see if you should reschedule.
- For 24-48 hours before the procedure, please avoid:
- Vaginal intercourse
- Using tampons
- Douching
- Using any vaginal medicines or creams
- On the day of your appointment: You can eat and drink as you normally would. Consider taking an over-the-counter pain reliever like ibuprofen (Advil, Motrin) about an hour before your appointment to help reduce cramping.
The entire procedure is done in our office and usually takes about 10-20 minutes.
- Positioning: You will be asked to undress from the waist down and lie on an exam table with your feet in stirrups, just like for a Pap test.
- Speculum: Your provider will insert a speculum into your vagina to gently open it and see the cervix.
- Vinegar Solution: A solution of diluted vinegar (acetic acid) will be applied to your cervix with a cotton swab. This solution helps highlight any abnormal cells by turning them white. You may feel a slight, cold tingling sensation.
- Examination: Your provider will look at your cervix through the colposcope. Remember, the colposcope does not touch you.
- Biopsy (if needed): If any abnormal areas are seen, your provider may take a tiny tissue sample, called a biopsy. This feels like a quick pinch or a menstrual cramp. The tissue sample is sent to a lab for analysis.
- Bleeding Control: If a biopsy is taken, a special solution may be applied to your cervix to stop any bleeding. This may result in a dark, coffee ground-like discharge later.
Recovery is typically very quick. You can usually return to your normal activities the same day.
- Discharge: You may have a dark or blackish vaginal discharge for a few days, especially if a solution was used to stop bleeding. This is normal. You may also have some light spotting. We recommend using a sanitary pad, not tampons.
- Discomfort: Mild cramping or discomfort is common and can be managed with over-the-counter pain relievers.
- Restrictions: To allow your cervix to heal, please avoid vaginal intercourse, douching, and using tampons for 3 days after your procedure, or as directed by your provider.
Your biopsy results are usually available in 1-2 weeks. We will contact you to discuss the results and any next steps.
Please call our office if you experience any of the following symptoms:
- Heavy vaginal bleeding (soaking through more than one pad per hour)
- Severe abdominal or pelvic pain not relieved by medication
- Fever or chills
- Foul-smelling vaginal discharge