The cervix is lined with a special group of cells. These cells act as a protective barrier between the cervix and the uterus and are the ones examined during colposcopy.
Definition
Colposcopy is used as a magnification technique. Its name is derived from the area of the body that is intended for microscopic exam. Colposcopy is an examination method that uses a lighted scope to view the cervix. This test and/or procedure is normally scheduled after an abnormal Pap smear result. Colposcopy is considered the standard follow-up procedure for an abnormal Pap result. This procedure can be performed in the doctor’s clinic. It allows the physician to not only analyze the reason for an individual’s abnormal Pap, but allows any malformations to be documented via video or image.
Exam Preparation
Once the source of an abnormal Pap is …show more content…
This area cannot be seen well with a colposcope. As a result, a small, conical-shaped sample may need to be obtained for biopsy. The colposcopy exam and procedure takes roughly 15 minutes.
Biopsy Aftercare and Expectations
Biopsied tissue will cause minor cramping and bleeding. These areas usually require an application of silver nitrate or Monsel’s solution by the physician following all biopsies. Vaginal soreness can be expected to last one or two days. Bleeding and slight discharge may continue for up to a week. For 1 week after cervical or endo-cervical biopsies, do not have any sexual activity; use tampons, douches, or vaginal medication. Do no exercise for one day. Biopsied tissue will heal, but requires rest and freedom from outside irritation.
Problems that should be communicated immediately to your doctor’s team in the days following your procedure include fever, belly pain, heavy (heavier than normal menses) bleeding, or foul-smelling vaginal discharge. It is important to monitor your body for these changes, due to the rare event that an infection can occur.
Procedure
Definition
Colposcopy is used as a magnification technique. Its name is derived from the area of the body that is intended for microscopic exam. Colposcopy is an examination method that uses a lighted scope to view the cervix. This test and/or procedure is normally scheduled after an abnormal Pap smear result. Colposcopy is considered the standard follow-up procedure for an abnormal Pap result. This procedure can be performed in the doctor’s clinic. It allows the physician to not only analyze the reason for an individual’s abnormal Pap, but allows any malformations to be documented via video or image.
Exam Preparation
Once the source of an abnormal Pap is …show more content…
This area cannot be seen well with a colposcope. As a result, a small, conical-shaped sample may need to be obtained for biopsy. The colposcopy exam and procedure takes roughly 15 minutes.
Biopsy Aftercare and Expectations
Biopsied tissue will cause minor cramping and bleeding. These areas usually require an application of silver nitrate or Monsel’s solution by the physician following all biopsies. Vaginal soreness can be expected to last one or two days. Bleeding and slight discharge may continue for up to a week. For 1 week after cervical or endo-cervical biopsies, do not have any sexual activity; use tampons, douches, or vaginal medication. Do no exercise for one day. Biopsied tissue will heal, but requires rest and freedom from outside irritation.
Problems that should be communicated immediately to your doctor’s team in the days following your procedure include fever, belly pain, heavy (heavier than normal menses) bleeding, or foul-smelling vaginal discharge. It is important to monitor your body for these changes, due to the rare event that an infection can occur.
Procedure