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Why is a colposcopy performed?
How should I prepare to have a colposcopy?
Does this procedure affect my ability to have children?
Will I have bleeding after a colposcopy?
Can I use tampons after the procedure?
When will I get the results of my colposcopy?
A colposcopy is a way Dr. Lichtenstein can examine your genitals, vagina and cervix closely. A colposcope is an instrument that shines a light on the cervix and magnifies the view for Dr. Lichtenstein. At the beginning of the exam, you lie back and place your feet in the stirrups as you would for a Pap smear. Dr. Lichtenstein inserts a speculum into your vagina and opens it slightly so he can see your cervix. Then Dr. Lichtenstein applies a vinegar solution to the cervix and vagina with a cotton ball or swab. The vinegar makes abnormal tissue turn white so Dr. Lichtenstein can identify areas that may need further evaluation.
If Dr. Lichtenstein sees areas of abnormal tissue during the colposcopy, he may also perform a biopsy. This involves removing small samples of tissue from any abnormal areas in or around the cervix. A specialist doctor called a pathologist will examine these samples.
It usually only takes 5 to 10 minutes for Dr. Lichtenstein to complete a colposcopy and biopsy.
A colposcopy is usually performed to help Dr. Lichtenstein find the reason for an abnormal Pap smear.
Colposcopy is important because it can detect cancer of the cervix at an early stage. Be sure to talk with Dr. Lichtenstein after the test so that any problems are taken care of right away.
If Dr. Lichtenstein takes a biopsy sample, you may feel mild cramps and pinching when he removes the abnormal tissue. Relaxing your muscles as much as possible and taking slow, deep breaths during the procedure may help. You may feel less discomfort if you take an over-the-counter pain reliever before the procedure. Ask Dr. Lichtenstein what kind of medicine you should take, how much to take, and when to take it. (When you ask, be sure to let Dr. Lichtenstein know if you’re pregnant or if you’re allergic to aspirin or ibuprofen.)
No. If Dr. Lichtenstein takes a biopsy sample, the amount of tissue taken from your cervix is very small and removing it will not affect any future pregnancies. However, it is important to let Dr. Lichtenstein know if you are pregnant now or even if you might be pregnant. This information will change the way Dr. Lichtenstein does the procedure.
You may have a dark-colored vaginal discharge after the colposcopy. If Dr. Lichtenstein takes a biopsy sample, he will put a thick, brownish-yellow paste on that area to stop any bleeding. When this paste mixes with blood, it forms a thick black discharge. It’s normal to have this discharge for a couple of days after the procedure. It’s also normal to have a little spotting for at least two days after a colposcopy.
No. Don’t use tampons or put anything in your vagina for at least 1 week after the procedure, or until Dr. Lichtenstein tells you it’s safe. Don’t have sexual intercourse for at least 1 week.
Call Dr. Lichtenstein right away if you have any of the following problems after your colposcopy:
It usually takes 1 to 2 weeks for Dr. Lichtenstein to get a report from the pathologist who looks at your biopsy samples. Dr. Lichtenstein’s office will contact you when these results are available. You will need to make a follow-up appointment with Dr. Lichtenstein to talk about the results and any additional treatment you may need. Try to schedule an appointment no later than 1 month after your colposcopy.
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