Colopscopy

Why do I need a Colposcopy?
Anyone who has an abnormal Pap test needs a Colposcopy to allow your Provider to visualize your cervix under a microscope.
What is a Colposcopy?
A Colposcopy is done when there is an abnormal Pap test result. Just like in a Pap test, your health care provider will insert a speculum into your vagina, and then some plain white vinegar is applied to your cervix and vagina. After waiting a few minutes, your provider will look at your cervix and vagina through a high powered microscope to look for any abnormal areas. Usually, a small biopsy of your cervix and a scraping of the cervical canal is taken and sent to the pathologist for identification.
Is this procedure painful?
Sometimes you may feel cramps during the procedure and we recommend that you take some Advil prior to the procedure.
What is the recovery time for this procedure?
You may feel cramps during the procedure, but these usually go away by the time you leave the office. Most people have some vaginal discharge, which may be dark in color from the medication used to stop the spotting from the biopsy area. It is better not to use a tampon after the procedure and not to have sex for 3-4 days.
Are there any complications I need to know about?
You need to call our office if you experience heavy bleeding. (more than one sanitary pad per hour), severe lower abdominal pain, fever, chills, or a bad smelling vaginal discharge.
When can I expect results from this test?
The biopsy tissue is sent to the pathology lab and usually it is received back in our lab within 10-14 days. We will inform you of the results and any follow up care you may require. If you do not hear from us in 2 weeks, please call our lab for your results. Most people only need a follow up Pap smear at 4-6 monthly intervals. Sometimes we have to follow up with other procedures such as cryo surgery and LEEP surgery.