Why is this procedure done?
This is a procedure that your doctor uses if there are problems with your cervix. The doctor looks at your cervix using a special tool called a colposcope. This tool has a light and also makes things look bigger. This helps your doctor find abnormal cells on the cervix. Then, the doctor can take a tissue sample called a biopsy of the abnormal cells. The doctor most often suggests this test when a Pap smear is abnormal. ‚
What will the results be?
Your doctor will talk with you about what was seen during the exam. The biopsy test results will let your doctor know what kind of changes there are in the cells and if you need more treatment. ‚
What happens before the procedure?
- Schedule this test before or after your menstrual period.
- For 24 hours before the procedure do not:
- Use vaginal creams or douches
- Use tampons
- Have sex
Your doctor will take your history. Talk to the doctor about: ‚
- All the drugs you are taking. Be sure to include all prescription and over-the-counter (OTC) drugs, and herbal supplements. Tell the doctor about any drug allergy. Bring a list of drugs you take with you. Ask about what drugs you should or should not take.
- Any bleeding problems. Be sure to tell your doctor if you are taking any drugs that may cause bleeding. Some of these are Coumadin ‚ ®, ibuprofen, Aleve ‚ ® (naproxen), or aspirin. Certain vitamins and herbs, such as garlic and fish oil, may also add to the risk for bleeding. You may need to stop these drugs as well. Talk to your doctor about them.
- Empty your bladder before the exam. This may help you be comfortable during the test.
What happens during the procedure?
- You will lie on an exam table and put your feet in foot holders.
- Your doctor will put a special tool called a speculum into your vagina. This helps keep your vagina open during the exam.
- The doctor will position the colposcope between your legs to look closely at the cervix and vagina.
- The doctor will apply a solution with a cotton ball or swab. It will show any abnormal cells.
- The doctor may take tissue samples if there are abnormal cells seen. This is a biopsy. To do this, the doctor will put a small sharp tool inside your vagina. You may feel slight discomfort during the biopsy. Your doctor may apply a special paste to stop the bleeding.
- The doctor will take all the tools out and will send the sample to the lab for testing.
- The exam may take 10 to 15 minutes.
What happens after the procedure?
- If you had a biopsy, ask your doctor when you will get the results.
- You may go home after the procedure.
What care is needed at home?
- Ask your doctor what you need to do when you go home. Make sure you ask questions if you do not understand what the doctor says. This way you will know what you need to do.
- If you had a biopsy, you may be sore for few days. Your doctor will tell you what drugs to take to ease the pain.
- You may have bleeding and dark discharge for few days. Use sanitary pads.
- After the exam, ask your doctor when it is safe to:
- Start using tampons again
- Bathe or douche
- Go back to your regular activities like work, driving, and sex.
What follow-up care is needed?
- Your doctor may ask you to make visits to the office to check on your progress. Be sure to keep these visits.
- The results will help your doctor know if anything is wrong. Together you can make a plan for more care if it is needed.
What problems could happen?
Helpful tips
- Signs of infection. These include fever of 101.4 ‚ °F (38 ‚ °C) or higher, chills.
- Very heavy bleeding
- Very bad belly pain
- Secretions from the vagina that smell bad
Where can I learn more?
FamilyDoctor.org ‚
http://familydoctor.org/familydoctor/en/diseases-conditions/cervical-cancer/diagnosis-tests/colposcopy.html ‚
Consumer Information Use and Disclaimer
This information is not specific medical advice and does not replace information you receive from your health care provider. This is only a brief summary of general information. It does NOT include all information about conditions, illnesses, injuries, tests, procedures, treatments, therapies, discharge instructions or life-style choices that may apply to you. You must talk with your health care provider for complete information about your health and treatment options. This information should not be used to decide whether or not to accept your health care providers advice, instructions or recommendations. Only your health care provider has the knowledge and training to provide advice that is right for you. ‚
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Copyright ‚ © 2015 Clinical Drug Information, LLC and Lexi-Comp, Inc. ‚