This pamphlet explains

reasons for colposcopy how colposcopy is performed what to expect before, during, and after the procedure

Colposcopy is done when a Pap test result shows abnormal changes in the cells of the cervix.

Reasons for Colposcopy

Colposcopy is done when a Pap test result shows abnormal changes in the cells of the cervix. Colposcopy provides more information about the abnormal cells.

Colposcopy also may be used to further assess other problems:

• Genital warts on the cervix
• Cervicitis (an inflamed cervix)
• Benign (not cancer) growths, such as polyps
• Pain
• Bleeding

The Procedure

Colposcopy is done like a Pap test in a doctor’s office. You may be referred to another doctor or to a special clinic to have it done.

Colposcopy

The procedure is best done when a woman is not having her period. This gives the doctor a better view of the cervix. For at least 24 hours before the test, you should not

• douche
• use tampons
• use vaginal medications
• have sex

A mild solution will be applied to your cervix and vagina with a cotton swab or cotton ball. This liquid makes abnormal areas on the cervix easier to see. You may feel a slight burning.

Biopsy

During colposcopy, the doctor may see abnormal areas. A biopsy of these areas may be done.

During a biopsy, a small piece of abnormal tissue is removed from the cervix. The sample is removed with a special device.

Cells also may be taken from the canal of the cervix. A special device is used to collect the cells. This is called endocervical curettage (ECC).

Results

If a biopsy was taken, the tissue will be studied in a lab. When biopsy results come back from the lab, your doctor will discuss them with you. Depending on the results, you may need to be checked more often, or you may need further testing or treatments.

Recovery

If you have a colposcopy without a biopsy, you should feel fine right away. You can do the things you normally do. You may have a little spotting for a couple of days.

If you have a colposcopy with a biopsy, your vagina may feel sore for 1 or 2 days. You may have some vaginal bleeding. You also may have a dark discharge for a few days. This may occur from medication used to help stop bleeding at the biopsy site. You may need to wear a sanitary pad until the discharge stops.

Your doctor may suggest you limit your activity for a brief time. While the cervix heals, you will be told not to put anything into your vagina for a short time:

• Do not have sex.
• Do not use tampons.
• Do not douche.

• Heavy vaginal bleeding (using more than one sanitary pad per hour)
• Severe lower abdominal pain
• Fever
• Chills

Finally...

A Pap test is a good way to find cervical changes that could become cancer. Colposcopy gives more information if a Pap test result is abnormal. Talk with your doctor about the results of your colposcopy and biopsy.

Glossary

Biopsy: A minor surgical procedure to remove a small piece of tissue that is then examined under a microscope in a laboratory.

Cervix: The opening of the uterus at the top of the vagina.

Pap Test: A test in which cells are taken from the cervix and vagina and examined under a microscope.

Polyps: Benign (noncancerous) growths that develop from membrane tissue, such as that lining the inside of the uterus.

Speculum: An instrument used to hold apart the walls of the vagina so that the cervix can be seen.

Vagina: A passageway surrounded by muscles leading from the uterus to the outside of the body; also known as the birth canal.

This Patient Education Pamphlet was developed by the American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists. Designed as an aid to patients, it sets forth current information and opinions on subjects related to women’s health. The average readability level of the series, based on the Fry formula, is grade 6–8. The Suitability Assessment of Materials (SAM) instrument rates the pamphlets as “superior.” To ensure the information is current and accurate, the pamphlets are reviewed every 18 months. The information in this pamphlet does not dictate an exclusive course of treatment or procedure to be followed and should not be construed as excluding other acceptable methods of practice. Variations, taking into account the needs of the individual patient, resources, and limitations unique to the institution or type of practice, may be appropriate.

Copyright © March 2009 by the American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists. All rights reserved. No part of this publication may be reproduced, stored in a retrieval system, posted on the Internet, or transmitted, in any form or by any means, electronic, mechanical, photocopying, recording, or otherwise, without prior written permission from the publisher.

ISSN 1074-8601

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