What is colposcopy?

Colposcopy is an examination of the cervix (lower part of the uterus) and the vaginal wall. It is performed using a special microscope, called a colposcope, which gives a magnified view of the tissue covering the cervix and vagina.

Unlike the Pap test, which scrapes tissue from the entire cervix, colposcopy allows the examiner to take tissue samples (biopsies) from specific areas that do not appear normal.

When do I need a colposcopy?

Colposcopy is recommended for women who:

• had abnormal Pap test results
• have a positive HPV (human papillomavirus) test

How is colposcopy performed?

This test is easy to do and only takes a few minutes. It is usually no more uncomfortable than having a Pap smear. No anesthesia or pain medication is needed. The examiner maps the cervix using the colposcope and examines any suspicious areas.

When is a biopsy needed?

A biopsy is the removal of a small sample of tissue for examination. If one or more suspicious areas are identified during colposcopy, small pieces of tissue are removed with biopsy forceps and sent to the laboratory for histological evaluation. 

What happens after colposcopy?

If a biopsy sample was taken, you may experience light bleeding for a few days. You should also avoid sexual intercourse for a few days to a week after the colposcopy.

What do the results of my colposcopy mean?

The results of the colposcopy and biopsy will determine if you need treatment. If the tests reveal early forms of damage, such as mild dysplasia, your doctor will ask you to have regular Pap tests. Mild dysplasia may go away on its own (the tissue returns to normal without treatment). More advanced stages can be treated with electrosurgery. loop resection  or laser or even surgery to remove the entire uterus.