At some point, many women will need to go through a colposcopy procedure that is performed by their gynecologist. The doctor will use a colposcope, which allows for a magnified view of the cervix, vulva, and vagina. All women should know what to expect before their scheduled colposcopy.
Reasons for a Colposcopy Procedure
The main reason to have a colposcopy done is to check for cervical cancer, or related cancers, which may be caused by HPV. If a woman’s Pap test comes back abnormal or if a doctor thinks that there is reason to look at the cervix more in depth based on a gynecological examination, a colposcopy may be recommended. A colposcopy procedure may also be performed if the woman is experiencing unexplained bleeding, according to Planned Parenthood.
How a Colposcopy Detects Cervical Cancer
When a woman has a colposcopy procedure, the doctor will use the colposcope to look at the skin. If there is an area of skin which appears abnormal, a biopsy will be taken. Depending on where the abnormalities appear to be, there may be more than one biopsy. The skin that is removed during the biopsy will then be sent to the lab for further testing.
What to Expect During a Colposcopy Procedure
A colposcopy procedure can seem scary, especially for women who don’t know what to expect. This is why it’s so important to talk to the doctor about what will happen during a colposcopy. Women who feel more prepared for the colposcopy procedure will feel less nervous during it.
- A nurse will usually provide the patient with ibuprofen about 15 minutes before beginning the procedure to prevent her from feeling mild pain.
- The woman will be asked to put on a hospital gown and will lay on the table with her legs in stirrups, just like a Pap test, for the colposcopy procedure.
- The doctor will insert a speculum into the vagina. This can cause some discomfort.
- A vinegar solution will be applied to the cervix. This solution will turn any cells which may be abnormal or cervical cancer white. Most women find that the solution can sting a bit.
- The doctor views the cervix, vulva, and vagina through the colposcope machine. The colposcope will never be used internally.
- To complete the colposcopy procedure, the doctor may take a biopsy of abnormal skin cells. This may cause a small pinch, but should not be very painful.
What to Expect After the Colposcopy Procedure
If the colposcopy consists of a biopsy, most women will experience light spotting or bleeding. Most doctors will provide their patients with a sanitary napkin to use after the colposcopy procedure, but it is ideal to bring one just in case. It is safe to bathe after having the colposcopy done. When a biopsy is taken to check for cervical cancer, women should avoid sexual intercourse for seven days so that they have time to heal.
A colposcope procedure plays an essential role in the early detection and successful treatment of cervical cancer. It is ideal to schedule this procedure promptly after being recommended to have it done by the doctor. Ruling out cancer or beginning treatment as soon as possible is important.
Sources:
American Academy of Family Physicians
Jody Morse - Jody Morse is a freelance writer from the Poconos. She earned her B.A. in English from East Stroudsburg University of Pennsylvania in ...
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