Been referred for colposcopy?
A colposcopy is a simple procedure that allows the doctor or nurse to examine your cervix more closely and to find any abnormal cervical cells that may be present.
Having a colposcopy is very similar to having a cervical smear except that a special microscope, called a colposcope, is used for the examination. This will not be any more uncomfortable than having a cervical smear as the colposcope stays outside the vagina.
For the colposcopy, you will lie on your back on a special couch in a similar position to that used to have a cervical smear. A speculum will be gently inserted into your vagina to allow your cervix to be clearly seen. Sometimes, a cervical smear will be taken. After this, the doctor or nurse will look at your cervix using the colposcope. Different liquids may then be applied to your cervix to make any abnormal areas easier to see.
If nothing is found at colposcopy, what happens next will depend on your cervical smear result. Your doctor or nurse will explain the options to you.
If an abnormality is found, a small sample of the abnormal area (a biopsy) may be taken to see if treatment is required or not.
If an abnormality is found, a small sample of the abnormal area (a biopsy) may be taken to see if treatment is required or not. Sometimes, if you were referred to colposcopy because of moderate or severe changes, you may be offered treatment straightaway. Some women prefer this as it gets everything over with quickly. Your doctor or nurse will explain the advantages and disadvantages of this to you.