Colposcopy is a diagnostic method aimed at closely examining the cervix, vagina, and vulva for signs of disease. During colposcopy, a special magnifying device called a colposcope is used by the doctor.
If the smear test (cervical smear) result is abnormal, colposcopy may be recommended. If an unusual image or finding is encountered during the colposcopic evaluation, a tissue sample may be taken for pathological examination (biopsy).
It is normal to feel a bit anxious before your colposcopy examination. Knowing what to expect during colposcopy can help you feel more at ease.
Colposcopy Can Be Used to Diagnose the Following:
- If abnormalities are found during a smear test or pelvic examination, colposcopy may be recommended.
- Genital warts,
- Cervicitis (inflammation of the cervix),
- Precancerous changes in cervical tissue,
- Precancerous changes in vaginal tissue,
- Precancerous changes in the vulva,
- Vaginal cancer,
- Vulvar cancer,
What are the Risks of Colposcopy?
Colposcopy is a very safe procedure with very few risks. Rarely, problems may arise from biopsies taken during colposcopy, and the following situations may occur;
- Heavy bleeding
- Infection
- Pelvic pain
When Should You Call Your Doctor?
Situations that require you to call your doctor after colposcopy;
- Experiencing heavier bleeding than usual during your menstrual period,
- Shivering,
- Fever,
- If you experience any of these symptoms like severe abdominal pain, please call your doctor.
How Should You Prepare for Colposcopy?
Before your colposcopy, you should pay attention to the following;
- Avoid scheduling your colposcopy during your menstrual period.
- Do not engage in vaginal intercourse one or two days before your colposcopy.
- Do not use vaginal tampons one or two days before your colposcopy.
- Avoid using vaginal medications in the two days prior to your colposcopy.
- Take an over-the-counter pain reliever like ibuprofen or acetaminophen before your colposcopy appointment.
How to Cope with Anxiety Before Colposcopy?
- Many women experience anxiety while waiting for a colposcopy examination. Anxiety can affect daily life. It may be difficult to concentrate and even sleep.
- Women who are very anxious about colposcopy may experience more pain during the procedure compared to those who find ways to manage their anxiety. Women with high levels of anxiety are also more likely to skip their colposcopy appointments.
- Ask your doctor for information about colposcopy and what to expect.
- Write down your questions or concerns about the procedure and ask your doctor to review them with you before your colposcopy begins.
- Find activities that help you relax, such as exercising, meditating, and spending time with friends or family.
- You might consider bringing a portable music device like an MP3 player to your colposcopy appointment or listening to music on your phone. You can ask your doctor if you can listen to music quietly during the examination. Women who listen to music during colposcopy may experience less pain and anxiety.
How is Colposcopy Done?
Colposcopy typically lasts between 10 to 20 minutes. It is performed with the patient lying on her back on a table with her feet supported, just like during a gynecological exam or smear test.
A metal speculum is inserted into your vagina. The speculum keeps the walls of the vagina open so that the doctor can see the cervix. The colposcope, a special magnifying instrument, is placed a few centimeters away from the vulva. A bright light is provided to the vagina, and the doctor looks through the lens of the colposcope as if using binoculars.
How is a Biopsy Taken During the Procedure?
If your doctor finds a suspicious area, a small tissue sample may be taken for pathology testing. To collect the tissue, your doctor uses a biopsy tool to remove a small piece of tissue. If there are multiple suspicious areas, your doctor may take multiple biopsy samples.
Cervical biopsy: A cervical biopsy causes very mild discomfort but is usually not painful; you may feel some pressure or cramping.
Vaginal biopsy: Taking a biopsy from the lower part of the vagina or vulva may cause pain, so your doctor may apply local anesthesia to numb the area.
Your doctor may apply a chemical solution to the biopsy site to limit bleeding.
What to Expect After Colposcopy?
If your doctor did not take a biopsy sample during colposcopy, there will be no restrictions regarding social activities after the examination. You may experience some spotting or very light bleeding in the vagina for a day or two.
If a biopsy sample was taken during colposcopy, you may experience the following;
- Vaginal or vulvar pain lasting one or two days,
- Light bleeding from your vagina for a few days,
- Dark-colored discharge from your vagina,
Use a feminine pad to track any bleeding or discharge. Avoid tampons, douching, and vaginal intercourse for one week after your biopsy or for as long as your doctor advises.
