Colposcopy is a procedure to closely examine your cervix, vagina and vulva for signs of disease. During colposcopy, your doctor uses a special instrument called a colposcope.
Your doctor may recommend colposcopy if your Pap test has shown abnormal results. If your doctor finds an unusual area of cells during colposcopy, a sample of tissue can be collected for laboratory testing (biopsy).
Many women experience anxiety before their colposcopy exams. Knowing what to expect during your colposcopy may help you feel more comfortable.
Your doctor may recommend colposcopy if a Pap test or pelvic exam revealed abnormalities.
Colposcopy can be used to diagnose:
Cervical cancer
Genital warts
Inflammation of the cervix (cervicitis)
Precancerous changes in the tissue of the cervix
Precancerous changes in the tissue of the vagina
Precancerous changes of the vulva
Vaginal cancer
Vulvar cancer
How you prepare
To prepare for your colposcopy, your doctor may recommend that you:
Avoid scheduling your colposcopy during your period
Don’t have vaginal intercourse the day or two before your colposcopy
Don’t use tampons the day or two before your colposcopy
Don’t use vaginal medications for the two days before your colposcopy.
By Dr. Shubhangi Mundhada
