Colposcopy is a diagnostic procedure that allows a doctor to examine and inspect the cervix and vaginal wall. During the procedure, a colposcope is used to magnify the tissues covering the cervix and vagina. If the doctor notices any changes, he or she may take a biopsy (a tissue sample) for further examination.
An obstetrician-gynecologist may recommend a colposcopy if a PAP test or pelvic exam reveals suspicious changes. Colposcopy is also recommended if the HPV (human papillomavirus) test result is positive.
Colposcopy can help diagnose:
- Genital warts;
- Inflammation of the cervix;
- Cervical lesions, such as polyps;
- Precancerous changes in the cervix;
- Cervical cancer;
- Vaginal cancer;
- Vulvar cancer.
What happens before colposcopy?
Your doctor will give you specific instructions on how to best prepare. If a biopsy is planned, it is recommended that you do not take aspirin, anti-inflammatory drugs, or anticoagulants for several days before the procedure, as these may increase the risk of bleeding.
Your obstetrician-gynecologist may also recommend:
- Avoid vaginal intercourse for a day or two before the colposcopy;
- Avoid scheduling the colposcopy during your period;
- Do not use tampons for a day or two before the colposcopy;
- There may be a higher risk of bleeding during pregnancy if a biopsy is performed.
What happens during a colposcopy?
A colposcopy usually takes 10 to 20 minutes. The patient lies down on a gynecological examination chair. A plastic speculum is inserted into the vagina to spread the vaginal walls so that the obstetrician-gynecologist can examine and evaluate the cervix and surrounding tissues. During the examination, the doctor washes and cleans the cervix to highlight areas of suspicious cells. This may cause a burning and stinging sensation, as a vinegar solution is used. The obstetrician-gynecologist then uses a special optical device called a colposcope to magnify and illuminate the cervix and surrounding tissues.
What happens during a biopsy?
If an obstetrician-gynecologist finds a suspicious area, a cervical biopsy is recommended, during which several fragments of cervical tissue are taken and sent to a laboratory, where pathologists examine the tissue fragments and make an accurate final diagnosis of the pathology. The final pathological response of the cervix is the most important test that confirms the diagnosis of the disease and determines the patient's further examination and treatment tactics.
What happens after colposcopy?
After the procedure, your obstetrician-gynecologist may monitor you for up to 15 minutes to make sure you do not experience any side effects, including dizziness, nausea, or an allergic reaction. If the obstetrician-gynecologist did not perform a biopsy during the colposcopy, you will not have any activity restrictions after the examination. You will be able to return home on the same day of the procedure. The next day, you may notice slight bleeding from the vagina.
If you had a biopsy during colposcopy, you may experience:
- Pain in the vagina or vulva lasting several days;
- Light vaginal bleeding lasting several days;
- Dark vaginal discharge.
If you experience light bleeding, it is recommended that you use sanitary pads. Avoid tampons, douching, and vaginal intercourse for one week after the biopsy.
Side effects and complications of colposcopy
Most colposcopies are minimally invasive, and patients recover quickly after the procedure. Possible complications after colposcopy:
- Bleeding that is heavier than normal menstrual bleeding;
- Chills;
- Fever;
- Severe abdominal pain.
If you experience any of the following symptoms, such as fever or severe abdominal pain, contact your nearest medical facility as soon as possible.
FAQ‘s about colposcopy
Is colposcopy painful?
Colposcopy causes slight discomfort and a feeling of pressure. You may also feel a slight burning or tingling sensation when the cervix is washed with vinegar solution.
How long does it take to get biopsy results?
Typically, the final pathological response to a biopsy is received after 1-2 weeks, but this may vary. The following factors influence the time it takes to receive biopsy results:
- Whether special staining and procedures are required for the test;
- Whether the pathologist needs to examine more samples;
- Whether the pathologist needs a second opinion.
What do the biopsy results mean?
The final pathological response of the biopsy is the most important test that confirms the diagnosis of the disease and determines the patient's further examination and treatment tactics. Your obstetrician-gynecologist will explain the final results in detail and discuss them with you. He or she will also discuss whether you need additional tests, surgery, and/or treatment. Don't be afraid to ask questions.
