|
A colposcopy is a procedure in which a device
called a "colposcope" is used to magnify the cervix.
This allows your doctor to visualize abnormal areas on the outer
cervix that cannot be seen otherwise. The colposcopy is done in
the office, in the same fashion as a pap smear. Your doctor many
apply a solution to your cervix that will cause any abnormal areas
to show up more clearly with the colposcope. If your doctor sees
any areas of abnormality, a sample of that area will be taken.
This is called a biopsy. This is done so that the cells can be
examined in the lab for more definitive diagnosis. The doctor
may also do an endocervical curettage (ECC). An EEC is a sample
of the inner cells of the cervix that cannot be seen with the
colposcope. Based on those results, your doctor will determine
if any further treatment is necessary.
Most often, a colposcopy is done to further
examine cervical cells that have shown up as abnormal on your
pap smear. The results of the colposcopy will determine whether
you need any further treatment or follow-up. In addition, a colposcopy
can be used to evaluate growths on the cervix, cervical warts,
or inflammation around the cervix.
Although the colposcopy is not a painful procedure,
may patients find it helpful to take a pain reliever such as Aleve
or Ibuprofen approximately one hour prior to the colposcopy. This
helps to reduce any cramping you may experience during the procedure.
Additionally, you should not douche, use tampons, have sexual
intercourse, or use vaginal medications at least 24 hours prior
to the procedure. You should also try to schedule the appointment
for a time that you are not on your menstrual period.
You should not insert anything into the vagina
for at least one week while your cervix is healing. You may have
some spotting or light bleeding for a few days afterward.
Call the office immediately if you have any
of the following symptoms:
- Found-smelling vaginal discharge
- Fever
- Severe abdominal pain
- Heavy vaginal bleeding (saturating 1 or more maxi-pads per
1 hour)
|
