When is it used? The colposcope is recommended for women who have had abnormal pap test, or a suspicious cervical lesion..
How can I prepare for Colposcopy? Do not make your appointment during your menstrual period. Refrain from intercourse, the use of spermicidal jelly, vaginal medications, douches, or tampons at least 24 hours before the procedure.
What happens during the procedure? You lie on the examining table just as a regular pelvic exam. The speculum remains in the vagina through out the procedure. The colposcope is placed next to the vagina opening in order to examine the genital area, vagina and cervix. If abnormal areas are found a biopsy will be taken.You may feel pinching or slight cramping when the tissue sample is removed. The tissue samples will then be sent to the lab for examination.
What happens after the procedure? You will receive a complete explanation of what was seen. Slight bleeding may continue for several days due to the biopsy. You may have vaginal discharge. This is normal. You may used menstrual pads that there should be no intercourse, tampons, or douching for one week after the procedure.
Benefits of this procedure: Your physician should be able to better diagnose any problems in the cervix and vagina and suggests further treatment is necessary.
Risks associated with this procedure: Risks are minimal and rarely occur. Minor bleeding from the biopsy site may occur.
Colposcopy during pregnancy: Abnormal pap smear results during pregnancy should be investigated. Pregnancy is not a reason to postpone colposcopy. Cervical biopsy during pregnancy should be done with caution because of increased risk bleeding.
• I want to thank Dr. Bryson for his editorial comments.