Hearing that you need a colposcopy can be nerve-racking. However, it’s a straightforward in-office exam that requires minimal prep and little downtime afterward.
Most folks rate a colposcopy about as enjoyable as a Pap test on steroids. However, our team at Women’s Specialists of Fayette considers it an invaluable tool when we need a closer look at the cervix and vaginal canal.
We also try to keep you comfortable during the procedure as part of our commitment to your overall health. Here’s what to expect during colposcopy and the insight we can gain from the procedure.
A colposcopy is a diagnostic procedure that allows your provider to examine the cervix, vagina, and sometimes the vulva, using a special magnifying instrument called a colposcope.
The colposcope remains outside the body, providing a well-lit, magnified view of cervical tissue. During the exam, we may apply a solution to help highlight abnormal cells. If an area looks unusual, your specialist may take a small tissue sample (biopsy) for further testing.
A colposcopy usually takes about 30 minutes. While you may feel pressure or mild discomfort, similar to a Pap test, most people do not find it painful.
The most common reason for a colposcopy is an abnormal Pap test or HPV screening result. These tests don’t diagnose cancer; they indicate that cervical cells don’t look typical.
A colposcopy helps determine whether the atypical cells are harmless, need monitoring, or require treatment.
Other reasons your provider might suggest a colposcopy include:
Early evaluation allows us to identify and manage potential precancerous changes before they become more serious.
Reasons for a colposcopy can vary widely. At Women’s Specialists of Fayette, our providers discuss specifics of what to expect during your colposcopy, why we’re recommending the exam, and what to expect afterward.
Generally, however, during a colposcopy, you lie on an exam table just as you would for a routine pelvic exam. Your provider inserts a speculum to open the vagina gently and then examines the vaginal and cervical tissue with the colposcope. If an abnormal area requires a biopsy, you may feel a brief pinch or cramp.
Afterward, you can usually return to routine activities the same day, but we recommend limiting strenuous activity for 24 hours. Mild spotting or dark discharge is common for a day or two, especially after a biopsy.
We contact you once the results are available and detail a plan for further care or follow-up as needed.
If your provider recommends a colposcopy, remember it’s a proactive measure, not a reason to panic. We’re happy to provide more information about the benefits of colposcopy and why you might need one.
Schedule an evaluation at Women’s Specialists of Fayette in Fayetteville or Peachtree City, Georgia. Call the office or book an appointment online today.
