A Colposcopy is a medical diagnostic procedure to examine an illuminated, magnified view of the cervix and the tissues of the vagina and vulva.
Before your Colposcopy: Write down questions or concerns that you have about the procedure, review these questions with the Doctor before the Colposcopy.
How to Prepare for your Colposcopy:
- Do not schedule a Colposcopy appointment during your period.
- Do not have vaginal intercourse during the 2 days prior to your Colposcopy.
- You are advised to take 400 mg of Ibuprofen one hour prior to appointment and may use it 6-8 hours after your Colposcopy.
What to expect during your Colposcopy?
- A Colposcopy is done in the office and the procedure typically takes 15 to 20 minutes.
- You’ll lie on your back on a table with your feet in supports, just as during a pelvic exam or Pap test. · The Doctor will place a speculum in your vagina. The speculum holds open the walls of your vagina so the Doctor can see your cervix.
- The colposcope, a special magnifying telescope, is positioned a few inches away from your vagina and is used to get a close up look at your cervix and vagina.
- The Doctor may apply a solution of acetic acid (vinegar). The solution helps highlight any areas of abnormally growing cells. Sometimes another solution (Lugol’s iodine) is also used.
* If the Doctor notes any areas of abnormally growing cells a small sample will be taken for biopsy.
- A sharp biopsy instrument is used to remove a small piece of tissue from noted areas. A local anaesthetic will be used prior to a biopsy t make it painless.
- The biopsy may cause a sensation of pressure or cramping. We will give painkillers after the procedure.
After your Colposcopy:
You may experience small amount of vaginal pain that lasts one or two days.
You may experience light bleeding or spotting from your vagina that lasts a few days.
You may experience a dark discharge from your vagina, that resembles dark coffee grounds.
You should avoid vaginal intercourse or the use of tampons, or douching for two weeks.
You will have no physical activity restrictions once the exam is complete.
You will need to follow up in office a week after the procedure to discuss you results.
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