Colposcopy

A colposcopy may be recommended for various reasons, with the most common ones being the detection of specific types of human papillomavirus (HPV) during your cervical screening test, observed changes in cervical cells or the cervix’s appearance, or the presence of certain symptoms. Similar to a cervical screening test, a colposcopy is a brief procedure designed for a closer examination of the cervix. This examination aids healthcare providers in determining the appropriate next steps for your care.

It’s important to note that the majority of individuals undergoing a colposcopy won’t require treatment. For those who do, some may undergo simple treatments, while a very small percentage may be diagnosed with cervical cancer, which can be addressed through various treatment options. If treatment is deemed necessary, your doctor will thoroughly discuss the available options with you.

Ensure to call the clinic to confirm your scheduled appointment. Do not worry if your menstrual period coincides with the appointment day because colposcopy can still be performed. Some patients may prefer to reschedule which is also reasonable. Additionally, notify the clinic if you are pregnant or suspect you might be, as a colposcopy can still be conducted during pregnancy, but the clinic needs this information.

In the 24 hours leading up to your colposcopy appointment, it’s advisable to abstain from sexual activity. You can maintain your regular eating and drinking habits. Consider bringing a pad with you to the appointment, as some individuals may experience slight bleeding or spotting afterward.

If, for any reason, you are unable to attend your appointment, please promptly contact the clinic to reschedule. It’s important to keep in mind that a colposcopy is a routine procedure, and the majority of individuals undergoing it will not require any subsequent treatment.

Your colposcopy appointment is expected to last approximately 20 to 30 minutes. Initially, your doctor will discuss the procedure with you, inquire about your cervical screening history, and address any questions you may have. Feel free to ask questions before or at any point during the appointment.

The colposcopy itself is a swift procedure, resembling a cervical screening test. You’ll be asked to undress from the waist down in private and lie on an examination bed, covered with a sheet and with your legs supported.

Once ready, the doctor will gently insert a speculum into your vagina for a closer examination of your cervix using a colposcope, a specialized instrument with a light resembling binoculars on a stand. Importantly, the colposcope does not make physical contact with your body.

To enhance visibility, the doctor will apply medical dye to your cervix, causing abnormal cells to change colour. If any areas appear abnormal, the doctor may take small tissue samples called biopsies. It’s worth noting that biopsies typically do not require anaesthesia, with some individuals feeling no discomfort and others experiencing a mild pinch.

Following a biopsy, your doctor may apply medical chemicals to your cervix to minimize bleeding.

After your colposcopy, you can return to your usual life immediately. You can drive yourself home or catch public transport and work as normal.

If you have had a biopsy, you might feel some mild period-type pain or cramping, but this should only last a few hours. You can take any over-the-counter pain relief medications if you prefer.

You might have a small amount of bleeding from your vagina that may be darker than usual. Any bleeding should stop after a few days.

To reduce the risk of infection, you should not have sex, use tampons, swim, or take a bath or spa for a few days after a biopsy. Showering is fine.

Contact your doctor if you have heavy bleeding, fever, or a smelly discharge. After your colposcopy, your doctor will talk to you about the next steps.

You will usually need to wait a few weeks for your results to be ready.

If your results are normal or show only small changes, you will usually be asked to have another cervical screening test in a year with your regular GP.

If your results show more significant changes, you will need to return for treatment.

Your doctor will talk to you about your recommended treatment, which is most commonly a short procedure to remove the area of abnormal cells.