Colposcopy is a procedure that allows you to see your cervix up close. It’s a quick and easy approach to detecting cell abnormalities in your cervix that could lead to cancer. Your doctor may recommend a colposcopy to examine for changes in the health of your vagina, cervix, and vulva.
What is Colposcopy?
During a colposcopy, your cervix, vagina, and vulva are carefully inspected for illness symptoms. Your doctor will use a colposcope, a specialized tool, during the colposcopy procedure. If your Pap test results are abnormal, your doctor might suggest a colposcopy.
During your colposcopy procedure, a tissue sample can be taken for laboratory analysis (biopsy) if your doctor discovers an unusual area of cells.
What makes a colposcopy different from a pap test?
A pap test, commonly known as a pap smear, takes a sample of your cervix’s cells and examines them for early alterations that could result in cervical cancer. In addition, a colposcopy can assist in confirming and ruling out potential issues if your pap test revealed some abnormal cells and you tested positive for HPV.
The human papillomavirus, sometimes known as HPV, is a virus that could increase your risk of developing certain malignancies, such as vulvar, vaginal, and cervical cancers. Additionally, your doctor might advise a colposcopy if you exhibit symptoms or signs of vaginal, cervical, or vulvar cancer.
Does a colposcopy hurt?
Colposcopies are almost painless. When the speculum is inserted, you could experience pressure. When doctors clean your cervix with vinegar-like fluid, it could also sting or burn a little. You may feel some discomfort after a biopsy.
Most say it feels like a strong pinch or cramp during menstruation. After a biopsy, you can experience minor vaginal bleeding, spotting, or dark discharge for a few days.
What Should You Know Before Your Colposcopy Appointment?
For a colposcopy, more preparation is needed. Here are two things you can do to help:
1: Plan your colposcopy for the time before your period or during light bleeding. This makes it simpler to see your cervix.
2: Refrain from vaginal sex or insert anything into your vagina (such as fingers or sex toys).
Can colposcopy cause any adverse effects?
A colposcopy won’t have any immediate adverse effects. However, if a biopsy is performed during a colposcopy, you can experience a few days of black vaginal discharge. This results from the medication doctors take to lessen the risk of bleeding during a biopsy. Additionally, you could have bleeding, cramping, or pain.
Call your doctor immediately if any of these symptoms persist or worsen, if you experience heavy bleeding, severe lower abdominal or pelvic pain, or if you develop a fever following the exam. Do not engage in vaginal intercourse or use any items or medications that go into the vagina unless your doctor has approved them, just as you should have done before the colposcopy.
Book Colposcopy Appointment With London Obs & Gynae Clinic
London colposcopy clinics can treat colposcopy efficiently. However, if you notice any symptoms that require medical assistance, get in touch with us. Our medical professionals will provide you with the best care and treatment.
