Colposcopy Specialist

What is a colposcopy?

A colposcopy is a procedure to examine your cervix and vagina using a medical device called a colposcope. The colposcope brightly illuminates and magnifies the area being examined, which makes it easier to see changes in tissues, identify abnormal cells, and take a biopsy, if needed.  

When do you need a colposcopy?

Your doctor at Martin, Lee & Page OBGYN may perform a colposcopy if a Pap test or cervical exam revealed:

• Precancerous changes of the cervix, vagina, or vulva
• Inflammation of the cervix
• Genital warts

What other tests may be done during colposcopy?

Several tests can be done during a colposcopy to help your doctor identify potential problems:

Acetic acid wash

When the cervix is brushed with acetic acid, abnormal cells turn white, which helps your doctor identify any problem areas.

Color filters

During a colposcopy, your doctor may apply filters to the colposcope that help them detect changes in small blood vessels that often develop as a result of precancerous changes.

Cervical biopsy

If any abnormalities are suspected, your doctor may perform a biopsy during the colposcopy, removing a sample of tissue from abnormal areas, which will then be examined under a microscope.

Cervical biopsies can be done several ways, using a laser, scalpel, or a punch instrument to remove a piece of tissue. In some cases, an instrument called a curette may be used to simply scrape tissue from your cervix.

How is a colposcopy performed?

A colposcopy begins just like a regular pelvic exam, with a speculum used to open the vagina and enable your doctor to examine your cervix. The colposcope is positioned near the opening of the vagina but without touching you, then your doctor apples the acetic acid wash, visually examines your cervix, and performs a biopsy if necessary.

The entire procedure typically takes about 15 minutes and usually doesn’t cause any discomfort.

The expert staff at Martin, Lee & Page OBGYN have extensive experience performing colposcopies and understand the stress and anxiety caused by even the mention of cancer or other gynecologic problems. Please reach out with any questions; the staff always offers support.