Colposcopy Specialist

What is colposcopy?

Colposcopy is a procedure that allows your gynecologist to examine your cervix, vagina, and vulva in magnified detail. A colposcope is a device that resembles a microscope that enlarges and magnifies your doctor’s view of your body, allowing them to see details that are invisible to the naked eye. 

Why would I need a colposcopy?

Eighth Avenue Obstetrics and Gynecology usually uses colposcopy following an abnormal Pap smear. Your doctor can examine your cervix in detail and potentially identify the condition that caused your abnormal results. They may also use colposcopy to diagnose issues like genital warts, cervical inflammation, or polyps. 

What happens during a colposcopy?

You don’t need to do anything special to prepare for colposcopy, although you should avoid sex, using tampons, vaginal medications, and douche products for at least 24 hours before your procedure. 

During a colposcopy, you wear a hospital gown and recline on a treatment table with your feet in stirrups. Your doctor inserts a speculum into your vagina to hold it open for an unobstructed view of your cervix. The position the colposcope outside of your body and look through it for a magnified view of your cervix. 

Your doctor may apply a solution to your cervix that makes abnormal cells easier to see and identify. Depending on what they find, your doctor may take a biopsy for additional testing.

Colposcopy is an outpatient procedure. If you only have a colposcopy and no biopsy, you shouldn’t have any uncomfortable side effects. However, if you have a biopsy, you may have some spotting and should avoid sex, tampons, or inserting anything into your vagina for a few days. If you have any discomfort, over-the-counter pain medication should help.

What happens if my colposcopy confirms a health problem?

Your doctor at Eighth Avenue Obstetrics and Gynecology discusses the results of your colposcopy and recommends treatments to address any abnormalities or health issues. 

For example, if you have abnormal cancerous or precancerous cells, they may recommend cryosurgery or loop electrosurgical excision procedure (LEEP) to remove the irregular cells. 

You can count on the expert gynecological health services including colposcopy at Eighth Avenue Obstetrics and Gynecology. Call the practice or make an appointment online today.