What Is a Colposcopy?
- A Pap smear is a test to screen for cervical cancer. When the pap smear is abnormal, often a colposcopy is recommended.
- A colposcopy is a microscope examination of the cervix.
What Will Happen?
- It is fine to eat a normal meal prior to the procedure.
- It is nice to bring a driver with you, but it is not necessary.
- In the exam room, your provider will place a speculum, just like during a pap smear exam.
- A solution will be placed on the cervix and then the cervix is examined using a special microscope.
- If abnormal cells are seen, the provider may need to take a biopsy, which is a small sample of cells.
- The procedure usually only takes about 5-10 minutes.
- If you have heavy bleeding or see clots passing, or if you have a fever of over 100 F, please call the office.
After the Procedure
- If a biopsy was taken, you will have a medication placed on the cervix to stop bleeding.
- This medication turns into a blackish-brown crumbly discharge.
- You will want to use a pad, not a tampon, for about 5 days after the procedure.
- You should abstain from intercourse for 5 days after the procedure.
Thank you for allowing us to provide you with the best medical care!
