Colposcopy enables doctors to view the cervix in detail. This exam is sometimes necessary to determine the cause of abnormal pap smears We routinely perform Colposcopy at our office in Burlington, Massachusetts. Call Burlington OBGYN Associates to book an appointment or request one online by following the book online link.
What is a colposcopy?
During colposcopy the doctors at Burlington OBGYN Associates use a Colposcope (a lighted magnifying device) to look at your cervix in detail. It’s an in-office procedure that takes around 5-10 minutes.
Your gynecologist uses a speculum to open your vagina. Then apply a vinegar or iodine solution to your cervix to highlight abnormal tissue. You might sense cold or slight burning sensations, but the procedure shouldn’t be painful.
If they identify any abnormalities, your gynecologist takes small tissue samples (biopsies) from your cervix and/or vagina. You may experience mild discomfort and cramping as they extract the tissue.
Why would I need a colposcopy?
Your gynecologist will likely recommend a colposcopy if you have an abnormal Pap smear. This routine cervical cancer screening procedure identifies changes in the cervix using a cell sample. If abnormal results are detected our experts may recommend Colposcopy.
It’s important to be aware that having an abnormal Pap smear doesn’t mean you have cancer. Most often, cervical cell changes aren’t a serious problem. If you do have precancerous cells or early-stage cervical cancer, treatment is far more straightforward and successful.
Other problems that might require a colposcopy include:
What happens after my colposcopy?
In most cases, you can return to work and go about your day as usual after a colposcopy. The biopsy may cause mild pain or cramping, but this typically fades within an hour or two. A cervical biopsy can also cause minor bleeding or a brownish/blackish vaginal discharge which should stop within a few days.
When your colposcopy results come back, our experts will discuss them with you and develop a plan of action that is highly personalized.
Call Burlington OBGYN Associates or book an appointment online today.