Colposcopy

A colposcopy is an office procedure done to evaluate your cervix or vagina if you have an abnormal pap smear result. A colposcope is a special microscope used to look at your cervix more closely and help direct biosies for diagnosis of precancerous or cancerous cells. Your practitioner will use two special stains, acetic acid and an iodine solution to help define the abnormal cells. These stains may burn or sting slightly. If there are abnormal areas seen with the colposcope, she may take biopsies of the abnormal areas. These small bits of tissue will then be sent to a lab where a trained pathologist will determine if there truly are abnormal cells present. These biopsies feel like a pinch when performed. Afterwards she will place a solution on your cervix to help stop any bleeding. This solution will produce a brown-black discharge for several days and it is recommended you wear a pad or liner to protect your clothing. You will have certain activities restricted for several days after the procedure. The results are generally available in 10-14 days. To make your procedure more comfortable, you may take 2 Advil or Motrin to lessen any cramping.

Please do not schedule this procedure while you are on your period.

Medical Disclaimer: The information provided in the Contemporary Women’s Care website should be relied upon for medical education purposes only. It is not intended to replace the independent judgment of a health care provider. The appropriateness of a course of treatment for a patient may vary from the medical information provided herein due to individual conditions and/or complications.