breadcrumbs--blue-border bob
Download (PDF, 166.5 KB)
Canberra Health Services
Health Information Sheet | Canberra Health Services

Colposcopy

A colposcopy is a procedure where your cervix, vagina or vulva are examined under magnification with a colposcope. A colposcope is a magnifying instrument within a light source and looks like a pair of binoculars. The colposcope does not touch you or go inside you. It allows the health professional to see any abnormalities.

Who needs a colposcopy?

A colposcopy is recommended:

  • if you have had abnormal cervical screening tests (previously known as a pap smear)
  • to review changes on your cervix, vagina or vulva
  • if you have certain symptoms like abnormal vaginal bleeding

If you have any questions or concerns about your colposcopy, you can discuss this further with the health professional who referred you.

How do I get ready for my colposcopy?

Try to make your appointment when you think you will not be having your period, as this is better for colposcopy. Before your appointment, do not put any creams or pessaries inside your vagina. Before the procedure begins, tell the staff what they can do to support you.

What happens during the procedure?

  1. Before the colposcopy starts, a speculum will be inserted into your vagina. Your vagina is the area inside your body that goes from external genitals to your cervix. A speculum is a device used to hold the walls of your vagina apart so that your cervix and vagina can be seen.
  2. Your cervix will then be examined using the colposcope. The doctor will dab your cervix with acetic acid (a vinegar-like solution) or an iodine solution to help them see any abnormal cells more clearly. Any abnormal cells will show up as a different colour.
  3. The doctor may decide to do a biopsy during the colposcopy and will talk with you about this at the time. A biopsy involves taking a small sample of tissue for testing to give more information on any changes in your cells. This tissue will be sent to the laboratory and examined under a microscope.
  4. The speculum will be removed, and the examination is complete.

How long will my colposcopy take?

The actual colposcopy typically takes 5-10 minutes, with the whole appointment usually lasting about 30 minutes. You may also have to wait in the waiting area before being seen.

Is colposcopy a painful procedure?

The procedure may cause some discomfort but should not be painful. A small number of people feel a slight tingling sensation when the acetic acid is applied to the cervix. Some people have mild cramping if a biopsy is taken. This settles quickly.

What should I do after my colposcopy?

Most people can return to regular activities straight away after having a colposcopy. Some people have mild pain or cramping, but this usually settles within 1 to 2 hours.

If you have a biopsy of your cervix:

  • you may have a small amount of vaginal bleeding after the procedure. A brownish or dark discharge is normal for the first few days. You may also have different vaginal discharge for up to 2 weeks.
  • do not bath or swim for 7 days. You can still shower.
  • for 2 weeks do not put anything in your vagina (creams, douches, tampons) or have vaginal sex.

See your healthcare provider if you have:

  • heavy vaginal bleeding (soaking pads within 1-2 hours)
  • vaginal bleeding for more than 1 week
  • unpleasant smelling vaginal discharge
  • pelvic pain or cramping that continues for more than a few days
  • fevers (temperature above 38°C) or chills

When will the results of my colposcopy be available?

The results of your colposcopy will be available from the clinic where you have had the procedure. They will tell you how to get these results at the time of your colposcopy. The clinic will also tell you about any other follow up care you may need.

Other resources:

References:

canberrahealthservices.act.gov.au