Colposcopy

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A colposcopy is an examination of vaginal and cervical tissues using a colposcope. A colposcope is a type of microscope used to magnify the surface of the cervix 10 to 40 times its normal size.

If your consultant sees any abnormalities, they can take tissue samples (biopsies) that can be tested in a lab for cancerous or precancerous cells.

If your cervical smear test indicates abnormal cells are present your consultant may recommend a colposcopy.

A colposcopy can also be recommended to investigate:

• Abnormal appearance of the cervix
• Abnormal bleeding
• Pain in the genital area
• Inflammation of the cervix
• Benign (non-cancerous) growths
• Genital warts

How do I prepare for a colposcopy?

• Share your pregnancy status with your healthcare provider. You can have a colposcopy during pregnancy, but you may be at greater risk for bleeding if your consultant performs a biopsy during the procedure. Discuss these concerns with your consultant.
• Schedule your colposcopy for a time when you’re not menstruating. You can have the procedure during your period. Still, your consultant will have an easier time viewing your cervix if you’re not bleeding.
• Avoid any kind of vaginal penetration for 48 hours before your colposcopy. Avoid intercourse and penetration with fingers or sex toys. Don’t use tampons or vaginal medications, like creams or suppositories. All these things can alter the results of your colposcopy.
• Take a pain reliever on the day of the procedure. Medications containing paracetamol or ibuprofen can make you more comfortable during the procedure provided there is no contraindication to any.

What happens during a colposcopy?

A colposcopy takes 10-20 minutes. The first part of a colposcopy is very similar to having a cervical smear. A speculum will be used to gently hold your vagina open. The colposcope does not go inside your vagina - it simply magnifies the area so your consultant can closely examine your cervix. 

Your consultant may use some liquids to help highlight any abnormal areas of your cervix. They may also take a sample of the cells around your cervix for laboratory evaluation.

What is it like to have colposcopy?

A colposcopy is usually no more uncomfortable than having a smear test. You won’t need any anaesthesia. Here’s what to expect:

1. You’ll lie on an examining table with your feet in stirrups.
2. Your provider will insert an instrument called a speculum that will widen your vagina so that your cervix is visible.
3. Your provider will look through the colposcope to take a closer look at your vagina and cervix. The colposcope has a built-in light and binocular-like lenses that make it easy for your provider to view your cervix while remaining seated at your feet. The colposcope will remain outside your vagina the whole time.
4. Your provider will use a cotton swab to apply an acetic acid solution (vinegar solution) to your cervix. You may notice a slight burning sensation. The solution helps highlight any suspicious areas.

If your colposcopy shows one or more areas of abnormal tissue, your provider can do a biopsy to remove the tissue for testing.

What is it like to have a biopsy?

Unlike cervical smear test, where tissue from your cervix gets scraped, colposcopy allows your consultant to take tissue samples by scraping cells from select areas. Small pieces of tissue will be removed and sent to a laboratory to see if cancer or precancer cells are present. You may feel mild pressure or a pinch when your provider removes the abnormal tissue. This can happen under local anaesthetic.

Going home after colposcopy

You should be able to go home right after having your colposcopy. You may experience slight bleeding or discharge for the first few days after this procedure. If you experience any heavy bleeding, cramping or fever be sure and contact your GP.