Why Do I Need This Examination?

Colposcopy ServicesDepartment of Gynaecology/ August 2013/ Review 2015 August

Colposcopy Services

Why do I need this examination?

You have been referredto a Colposcopy clinic because yourcervical screening test (smear) has shown evidence of abnormal cells on the neck of the womb (cervix).

This is not unusual about one in ten tests are abnormal.

An abnormal result usually means that changes have been found in the cells on the neck of the womb and are known as dyskariosis and need to be examined.

What is a Colposcopy?

Colposcopy is a simple examination that allows a doctor or qualified nurse to see the neck of the womb (cervix).

The instrument used is called a colposcope and is really a pair of binoculars on wheels that acts like a magnifying glass this enables the doctor or nurse to examine the neck of the womb (cervix). This instrument does not touch you.

You will be positioned on a special couch that has leg padded supports and the nurse or doctor will insert the speculum into the vagina as if you were having a smear test sometimes vaginal swabs will be taken if you have a vaginal discharge to identify if you have an infection.

Liquids will then be applied to the neck of the womb (cervix) to highlight any abnormal area.

If there are any abnormal areas these will show up white and biopsy will be taken from this area.

White patches seen on examination can also determine if there is infection or inflammation.

Are there any alternatives?

There are no other alternatives. This is the only procedure available to visualize the neck of the womb and examine it closely.

Is it painful?

You may experience some discomfort but it is unusual for this procedure to be painful. If you have regular smears then the procedure is the same.

Some women do experience stinging sensation when liquid is applied initially but usually it does wear off.

During a biopsy being taken some women may experience discomfort often likea period type pain in the lower abdomen usually mild pain relief can be taken such as paracetamol toalleviate the pain.

Are there any risks?

There are no lasting permanent risk or side effects form having a Colposcopy. But if a biopsy is taken you may experience some vaginal spotting but all this information will be given to you prior to leaving the clinic.

Advice after the procedure

You will be given instructions for your next appointment, if you have had a biopsy taken you will be told when you should receive your results and given an after care leaflet to take home. A further appointment will be made.

If you any enquiries or any problems please contact the department on 01226 432213 0r 01226 432261.

S. Wood 2015

Susan Wood 2013