A colposcopy is a medical procedure used to follow up on abnormal Pap smear results, or observations of irregularities during a routine gynecology appointment. During colposcopy, the goal is to identify areas of abnormality in the vagina and around the cervix, and to take tissue samples for biopsy, if necessary. The procedure can also be used to identify the cause of unusual observations made during a pelvic exam, or to confirm that a previous treatment or procedure is working effectively.
When a woman comes in for a colposcopy appointment, the procedure is very similar to a regular gynecology appointment. Most of the time, her regular doctor can perform the procedure. The appointment begins with undressing from the waist down on a gynecological table, and then the practitioner inserts a speculum to dilate the vagina, making it easier to visualize the internal reproductive structures. The area is then cleaned with a mild vinegar solution, which will cause any abnormal areas to whiten.
Instead of performing the exam with the naked eye, the professional uses a colposcope, a microscope that can magnify areas of interest up to 400 times, if necessary. A bright light illuminates the area while the professional manipulates the colposcope to look for areas of abnormal tissue or blood vessel development. If an abnormality is detected, a biopsy may be taken for analysis.
Colposcopies can also be used to identify infections, physical abnormalities, and some other conditions. Sometimes a doctor will recommend a colposcopy just to make sure there are no emerging conditions of concern in women who are at risk, such as women with repeated abnormal Pap tests or HPVs.
The procedure is as comfortable as a regular pelvic exam. Some women like to take a muscle relaxant or anti-anxiety medication before a colposcopy because they may be asked to sit in the position for a while. If a biopsy is taken, a painful pinching sensation may be experienced and some bleeding may occur.
As a general rule, there are no complications involved in a colposcopy. Some women experience light bleeding or spotting, and doctors often recommend that they refrain from sexual activity, the use of tampons, or the administration of vaginal medications for a week after the procedure. Biopsy test results, if taken, may take a while to return, but women should be assured that their medical providers will call as soon as the results come back.