A colposcopy is a procedure where the cervix, vagina or vulva are examined to follow up abnormal cervical screening tests and/or to review physical changes.
About this service
A colposcopy is a procedure where the cervix, vagina or vulva are examined under magnification with a colposcope.
A colposcope is a magnifying instrument within a light source and looks similar to a pair of binoculars.
The colposcope does not touch you or go inside you, it just allows the practitioner to see any abnormalities.
Who we care for
Our services are available for patients who are referred to by a GP or medical practitioner.
This service is free for Medicare card holders, asylum seekers and refugees. A fee will be incurred for all other patients.
How to access this service
Your GP or medical practitioner will organise for you to access this service.
For more information, please call us on (02) 5124 7625. You will hear an answering machine message. If you leave a message, we will call you back as soon as possible.
What to expect
Once we receive your referral, we will review it and decide how soon you need to be seen. This process is called triage. We’ll send you a letter to let you know your triage category and our team will contact you to book an appointment.
For a colposcopy to take place, a speculum is inserted into the vagina to hold the walls of the vagina apart so that the cervix and vagina can be seen.
The cervix is then examined using the colposcope and 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.
The doctor may decide to do a biopsy during the colposcopy and will discuss this with you at the time. A biopsy involves taking a small sample of tissue which is sent to the laboratory and examined under the microscope to provide additional information on any cell changes that might be present. The speculum is then removed when the examination is complete
A small number of people experience a slight tingling sensation when the acetic acid is applied to the cervix. Some may experience mild cramping if a biopsy is taken. This settles quickly.
What to bring to your appointment
- Medicare card
- Any letters or correspondence from your GP
- Medicines you need to take while you are here
- Previous x-ray films, scans, ultrasounds or any other test results or reports
Where we’re located
Centenary Hospital for Women and Children, Building 11, Level 2, Canberra Hospital.
We have directions to Centenary Hospital for Women and Children and Canberra Hospital.
Information for referrers
Please see Community HealthPathways for detailed referral criteria and information.
Referral options:
- Phone: (02) 5124 7625
- Fax: (02) 5124 5500
- SmartForm
