If the doctor detects an unusual area of cells during the colposcopy procedure, a sample of tissue is collected for laboratory testing. In addition, colposcopy is used to better control lesions of the vulva, vagina or cervix that are detected during the clinical examination (e.g., warts).
How is colposcopy performed?
Colposcopy takes place at the doctor’s office and lasts 5 to 10 minutes. The woman lies on her back on the examination table and places her feet in the stirrups. The doctor inserts the special magnifying instrument called a colposcope, a few inches away from the vulva. The doctor may use a cotton swab to apply an acetic acid solution to the area. This may cause a burning or tingling sensation. The solution helps highlight any areas of suspicious cells, and the doctor records their exact location, size and type of lesion.
If required, special tools are used to obtain biopsies. This means a slight discomfort for the woman. Next, the doctor may use a special solution for hemostasis. The biopsy results usually determine if further treatment is needed.
Patient preparation for colposcopy
To get prepared for the colposcopy, the woman should avoid vaginal washing, sexual intercourse or the use of tampons and vaginal creams for at least 24 hours. Scheduling the colposcopy during the menstrual period is avoided. The woman should inform the doctor in case of pregnancy. In such case, the colposcopy can be performed, as long as there is a corresponding indication, but the biopsies will be probably postponed to a later date.
After the colposcopy
If the doctor did not take a biopsy sample during the colposcopy, the woman can return to her normal activities immediately. If a woman had a biopsy sample taken, she may experience vaginal or vulvar pain, light bleeding from the vagina or dark discharge, which is due to the solution used by the doctor for hemostasis and will stop after a few days. The woman must avoid the use of tampons and vaginal creams as well as sexual intercourse for at least two days after the biopsy. In case of heavy or prolonged vaginal bleeding, fever, foul-smelling vaginal discharge and severe abdominal pain, the woman must immediately contact her doctor.
