Colposcopy/HPV

What is it?

A colposcopy is an office procedure that is done to visualize your cervix (the opening to your uterus) under a microscope. It is a way for your physician to magnify the image of your cervix and vagina 2-60 times larger. This magnifying instrument is called a “colposcope.”

Why It Is Done

Women who need a colposcopy will typically be told that her pap was “abnormal” and that she needs to have this procedure. A colposcopy typically involves painting the cervix with acetic acid (just vinegar!) and looking at the cervix with the colposcope. Frequently, cells on the cervix that are dysplastic then have a special appearance that allows biopsy and confirmation of cellular abnormalities. If biopsies show a “high-grade” dysplasia of the cervix, a woman will typically be offered a LEEP, cone or cryo procedure (does NOT mean cancer). If the biopsies show a “low-grade” abnormality, current recommendations are to just watch the areas as there is a high likelihood of regression to normal. Your doctor guides you through the process. Although stressful, most women with an abnormal pap will revert to normal and not require treatment.

A colposcopy can also be performed to assess other issues such as abnormal bleeding, genital warts, cervicitis (inflammation of the cervix), and benign growths such as polyps. Colposcopy may also be performed of other parts of the genitalia such as the vagina, vulva and peri-rectal areas.

How To Prepare

You should notify your physician if you are pregnant. You can take Ibuprofen (Advil) or acetaminophen (Tylenol) one hour prior to the procedure to help with mild cramping that may occur. It is requested you not use tampons, vaginal medications, douche, or have intercourse 24 hours prior to the procedure. Make sure your physician is aware of the current medications you’re taking and any allergies or sensitivities you may have. Be sure to mention any blood thinning medications or bleeding disorders that you may have.

This procedure cannot be done if you are having your period. However, if you are only spotting, it can still be done.

Remember, a “colpo” is only performed to figure where on the cervix the abnormal cells are coming from, it does not treat the area(s). Therefore it is called a diagnostic procedure (as in diagnosis). A therapeutic procedure (as in therapy) is used to treat the abnormality (such as LEEP, Cone, or Cryo).