Why are Colposcopies performed?
Colposcopy is used to follow up abnormal cervical cancer screening tests (eg, Pap smear, human papillomavirus [HPV] testing) or abnormal areas seen on the cervix, vagina, or vulva. Your Pap smear may be abnormal if you have cervical precancer or cancer, often caused by HPV infection of the cervix.
How is a colposcopy performed?
Your doctor positions the special magnifying instrument, called a colposcope, a few inches away from your vulva. Your doctor then shines a bright light into your vagina and looks through the lens of the colposcope, as if using binoculars. Your cervix and vagina are swabbed with cotton to clear away any mucus.
What is the difference between a Pap smear and a colposcopy?
A pap test, also called a pap smear, involves gathering a sample of cells from your cervix and testing them for early changes that can lead to cervical cancer. If your pap test showed some abnormal cells and you tested positive for HPV, a colposcopy can help confirm and diagnose potential problems.
What can you not do after a colposcopy?
Do not douche, have sexual intercourse, or use tampons for 1 week if you had a biopsy. This will allow time for your cervix to heal. You can take a bath or shower anytime after the test.
Is a colposcopy medically necessary?
Your provider may do a colposcopy if they find problems or abnormal cells during a pelvic exam or Pap test. You may also need one if you have an HPV (human papillomavirus) strain known to cause cervical cancer. Through the colposcope, the healthcare provider can see certain changes in cervical and vaginal tissues.
When is a colposcopy needed?
Before your colposcopy You’ll be referred for a colposcopy if your cervical screening test reveals cervical cell changes, or symptoms such as unexplained pelvic pain or vaginal bleeding need to be investigated. It will usually be carried out in the outpatients department of your local hospital.
Is a colposcopy serious?
A colposcopy is a safe and quick procedure. However, some women find it uncomfortable and a few experience pain. Tell the doctor or nurse (colposcopist) if you find the procedure painful, as they will try to make you more comfortable. A colposcopy is a safe procedure to have during pregnancy.
How painful is colposcopy?
A colposcopy is nearly pain-free. You might feel pressure when the speculum goes in. It might also sting or burn a little when they wash your cervix with the vinegar-like solution. If you get a biopsy, you might have some discomfort.
How painful is a colposcopy?
Are Colposcopies painful?
A colposcopy is nearly pain-free. You might feel pressure when the speculum goes in. It might also sting or burn a little when they wash your cervix with the vinegar-like solution.
What are the symptoms of HPV in females?
HPV can infect cells in the vagina and around the vulva. If a female has low risk HPV, they may see warts on the vulva. These warts may present as: a cluster that looks like a cauliflower….Some symptoms of vaginal cancer include :
- bleeding after sex.
- unusual discharge.
- a lump in the vagina.
- pain while having sex.
Does a colposcopy mean I have HPV?
Contents. A colposcopy is a test to take a closer look at your cervix. The cervix is the opening to your womb from your vagina. A colposcopy is often done if cervical screening finds changes to your cells that are caused by certain types of human papillomavirus (HPV).