What is a Colposcopy?
A colposcopy is a screening exam used to check your cervix, vulva, and vagina for signs of abnormal tissue. It is often used to follow up on an abnormal Pap smear or a positive human papillomavirus test result. A biopsy may be taken for further testing if abnormal cells are found during a colposcopy.
What does a colposcopy test for?
Colposcopies primarily check for cancer cells or cells that could become cervical cancer if not treated (also called cervical dysplasia).
The examination can also help identify:
- Genital warts, which are caused by the human papillomavirus (HPV)
- Noncancerous growths called polyps
- Visible abnormalities such as inflammation, bleeding, or lesions
A colposcopy may also be performed to evaluate other symptoms like abnormal vaginal bleeding or vulvar itching.
How is a colposcopy performed?
A colposcopy is a non-surgical procedure that can be performed right in your doctor’s office. It typically takes about 15 minutes.
Your doctor will have you lie on the exam table and rest your feet in stirrups, similar to a routine pelvic exam. A speculum – a long, narrow, duckbill-shaped instrument – will be inserted into your vagina, allowing your doctor to view your cervix.
The colposcope, a magnifying instrument, will be positioned just outside your vulva. The doctor will shine a light through the colposcope, illuminating the cervix and allowing your doctor to see the abnormal areas.
Vinegar or acetic acid is placed on the cervix and vagina to stain the cells and to allow the doctor to see where the abnormal tissues are located and determine the size of any abnormal cells. The size, type, and location of abnormal cells assist in identifying which area or areas may need to be biopsied.
Colposcopy and biopsy
Some people also need to have a biopsy of the inner cervix during colposcopy; this is called endocervical curettage (ECC). Our doctor may wish to take a tissue sample for further testing, possibly for a cervical cancer screening test. A sharp instrument is used to remove a small tissue sample from the suspicious area. A cervical biopsy isn’t necessarily painful, but numbing agents are available. It is uncomfortable and can lead to mild cramping.
You might have some spotting, vaginal bleeding, or dark discharge from your vagina for a few days after a biopsy.
How to prepare for your colposcopy
If a colposcopy is needed, it is recommended that you:
- Schedule your procedure during a time when you are not having your period.
- Do not use tampons or vaginal creams for at least 48 hours before the procedure.
- Abstain from vaginal intercourse for at least 48 hours before your appointment.
- Take an over-the-counter pain reliever about 30 minutes before your procedure.
What to expect after a colposcopy
After a colposcopy, it’s normal to experience some spotting and brownish vaginal discharge for the next few days. This is normal and can be managed with sanitary pads. Do not use tampons during this time.
If a biopsy was performed during your colposcopy, you would need to avoid tampons, sexual activity, douching, and any activity that involves inserting objects or fluids into your vagina for 7-10 days.
What if my colposcopy results aren’t normal?
Abnormal biopsy results may be due to:
- Cervical cancer
- Cervical intraepithelial neoplasia (CIN) — precancerous tissue changes that are also called cervical dysplasia
- Cervical warts (infection with human papillomavirus, or HPV)
The immediate course of action may vary if abnormal cervical cells are detected during your examination. Depending on the abnormality of the cells, you may need more tests or treatments.
Sometimes, waiting and seeing if the cells heal on their own may be recommended. You’ll likely have additional Pap tests to monitor the cells.
In some cases, a biopsy may be your treatment. All abnormal cells are removed during the procedure. You won’t need any more treatment and can resume regular Pap smears, pelvic exams, and HPV tests.
If your biopsy results reveal more advanced precancer cells, the following procedures may be performed:
- Cryotherapy: a non-surgical procedure that effectively destroys abnormal cells with a chemical freezing technology.
- LEEP: abnormal cells are removed with a wire loop that carries an electric current.
- Cone biopsy: the surgical removal of a cone-shaped section of tissue from the cervix using a scalpel.
- Laser: a laser is used to precisely target and vaporize the affected tissue, removing it without damaging the surrounding healthy cells.
What are the risks of a colposcopy?
Colposcopies are generally very safe procedures with few risks. However, all medical procedures do carry some risk.
Following your colposcopy, if you experience heavy bleeding, severe pelvic pain, or if you develop a fever, you may have an infection. Call your healthcare provider right away if you think something may be wrong.
Why choose Dr. Thais Aliabadi
Dr. Thais Aliabadi and her team accompany women throughout every stage of their reproductive care, including the joyful and the stressful periods.
Our focus is on helping the patient decide what’s best for their lifestyle. For this, we offer a full range of medical procedures—from routine Pap smears to specialized hormonal tests—as well as a listening ear.
In addition to her own expertise, Dr. Aliabadi also teaches residents at Cedars Sinai Medical Center and medical students at the University of Southern California.
We invite you to establish care with Dr. Aliabadi. Please make an appointment online or call us at (844) 863-6700.
The gynecology practice of Dr. Thais Aliabadi in Beverly Hills is conveniently located for patients throughout Southern California and the Los Angeles area. We are near Beverly Hills, West Hollywood, Santa Monica, West Los Angeles, Culver City, Hollywood, Venice, Marina del Rey, Malibu, Manhattan Beach, and Downtown Los Angeles.
Supported by her warm professional team, Dr. Aliabadi treats women through all phases of life and cherishes the special one-on-one relationship between patient and doctor.