Health Topics for Tests and Exams

Respiratory Care

Cellular Immunology Diagnostic Lab

Colposcopy

Colposcopy is an office procedure used to evaluate a variety of female problems. Such problems include:

• an abnormal Pap smear showing a precancer or cancer of the cervix

• vaginal tube changes found on Pap or exam and

• skin problems of the opening of the vagina, or vulva

The tool, which looks like binoculars, allows your healthcare provider to see the areas in question more closely. It may have a camera attached that allows the test to be seen on a TV monitor as it is performed.

To be able to see the cervix, the vagina needs to be opened slightly. A tool called a speculum is used to open the vagina. The surface of the cervix is washed with a vinegar solution that helps bring out the patterns of the abnormalities. The color, surface texture, and blood vessels are noted.

Any areas that seem to be a precancer or cancer can be sampled with a biopsy. The cervix has little sensation of pain, so no anesthesia is needed for this. It is felt as a pull or tug in the pelvis and may cause mild cramps for a short time afterwards. Because there is a small area of the cervix opening beyond where the examiner can see, this area is also sampled by a gentle brushing or scraping of the canal. The test samples are sent to a lab to be examined under microscope. If abnormal results occur, further treatment, or follow-up, will be recommended by your healthcare provider.

There will be a small amount of bleeding from the vagina for several days as a brown, sandy discharge. Wearing pads for about a week after this test will be necessary. A mild chemical solution may be prescribed as a douche after the procedure.

If the area of the vagina or vulva is being tested, anesthesia is used during the procedure. Rarely are stitches needed for the skin here, but if used, they will usually heal and dissolve quickly.

If you are pregnant and have an abnormal Pap smear, these tests can still safely be done. Another Pap smear may be taken during the pregnancy. Full treatment is usually done after delivery.

Make sure to discuss any concerns or questions you may have about colposcopy with your healthcare provider.

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