Colposcopy

Colposcopy is an office procedure that examines the vagina or the cervix using a magnifying device called colposcope. Colposcopy is done when a Pap test result shows abnormal changes in the cells of the cervix. Colposcopy provides more information about the abnormal cells. The procedure is best done when a woman is not having her period. This gives the doctor a better view of the cervix. For at least 24 hours before the test, you should not douche, use tampons, use vaginal medications, or have sex. A speculum will be used to hold apart the vaginal walls so that the inside of the vagina and the cervix can be seen. The colposcope is placed just outside the opening of your vagina. A mild solution will be applied to your cervix and vagina with a cotton swab or cotton ball. This liquid makes abnormal areas on the cervix easier to see. You may feel a slight burning. During colposcopy, the doctor may see abnormal areas. A biopsy of these areas may be done. If you have a colposcopy without a biopsy, you should feel fine right away. You can do the things you normally do. You may have a little spotting for a couple of days. If you have a colposcopy with a biopsy, your vagina may feel sore for 1 or 2 days. You may have some vaginal bleeding. You also may have a dark discharge for a few days. This may occur from medication used to help stop bleeding at the biopsy site. You may need to wear a sanitary pad until the discharge stops. Your doctor may suggest you limit your activity for a brief time. While the cervix heals, you will be told not to have sex, use tampons or douche.