Gynaecology › Colposcopy
Colposcopy
Colposcopy is examination of the cervix using a magnifying instrument called a colposcope. The instrument does not enter the body; it provides light and magnification from outside so the tissue can be seen in detail.
When it is performed
- An abnormal smear result
- Persistent high-risk HPV positivity
- A suspicious appearance of the cervix on examination
- Recurrent bleeding after intercourse
- Follow-up of a previous treatment to the cervix
How it is done
It is carried out on the examination couch in a position similar to a routine gynaecological examination. Acetic acid and then iodine solution are applied to the cervix; these make suspicious areas stand out by changing colour.
The examination usually takes 10 to 15 minutes. Anaesthetic is generally not required; if a biopsy is taken you may feel a brief cramp similar to period pain.
If a biopsy is taken
Where a suspicious area is seen, a tissue sample about the size of a grain of rice is taken and sent for histology. The result is usually available within a week, and the treatment decision follows from it.
After the procedure
- Spotting or dark discharge for a few days is common (caused by the iodine solution)
- If a biopsy was taken, avoid intercourse, tampons and swimming for about a week
- Seek advice without delay in the event of heavy bright red bleeding or fever
