Colposcopy
Colposcopy is a simple, non-invasive and at the same time very important examination for the gynecological health.
Its history and evolution reaches 100 years of life, while many characterize it as a forerunner of the Pap test (Papanicolaou).
What is the Colposcopy?
Colposcopy thoroughly checks the cervix, vagina and vulva for cancer or abnormal cells that could develop into cancer.
It is also used to control other gynecological diseases such as HPV warts or benign polyps.
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When is Colposcopy done?
A colposcopy is a simple, painless test for most women, but not a routine test.
Your gynecologist may recommend a colposcopy:
- After testing positive for HPV.
- By identifying lesions from the Pap test in the area.
- If there is unusual bleeding from the vagina, such as bleeding after sex.
- If there is inflammation of the cervix.
Preparation for Colposcopy
The colposcopy does not need any special preparation, while the duration of the examination usually does not exceed 30 minutes in total.
However, the gynecologist should be informed about the patient's medication, as well as the possibility of pregnancy.
Also, it is advisable not to schedule the colposcopy during the period week.
Gynecologists generally recommend not using vaginal creams, tampons, vaginal washes and not having sexual intercourse for the same period of time 24 hours before the examination.
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Procedure
The gynecologist uses the colposcope, a brightly lit instrument that looks like a microscope and has the ability to magnify the vagina and cervix.
If during the examination he detects any "suspicious" change, he will proceed with a biopsy of the cervix or the corresponding area.
Colposcopy Step by Step
1st Step
The woman lies down in the examination room of the gynecological clinic, just like in the typical gynecological examination and when receiving a pap test.
2nd Step
The gynecologist uses a vaginal dilator so that the cervix can be exposed.
3rd Step
The colposcope is then placed outside the vaginal opening and mild solutions are applied to the cervix which "detect" the differences between normal and abnormal tissue.
Some of these may cause a burning sensation.
4th Step
The gynecologist examines the tissues through the colposcope and, if deemed necessary, will collect samples for further testing in the laboratory.
The results of the biopsy are ready in about 10 days.
During the examination the woman may feel mild pressure, possibly a burning sensation during the application of the solutions, while in the biopsy she may feel a small sting.
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What does Colposcopy show?
After the end of the examination, the gynecologist informs the patient about what the colposcopy showed.
Depending on the results of the biopsy, if any, the gynecologist will indicate whether the patient should proceed with treatment or follow-up and re-check at specific time intervals.
Sometimes colposcopy can be performed more than once.
After the examination is completed you can return to your normal daily activities. If you had a biopsy you may feel mild pain or have light bleeding for a couple of days.
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