Q&A

What are the steps of a colposcopy?

What are the steps of a colposcopy?

Steps in the colposcopic examination

  1. Explain the procedure to the woman.
  2. Obtain informed consent.
  3. Obtain a relevant medical history.
  4. Insert the vaginal speculum and inspect the cervix.
  5. Obtain a cervical cytology smear, if necessary.
  6. Obtain specimens for laboratory examination, if necessary.
  7. Apply normal saline solution.

How long do colposcopy biopsy results take?

Results of a colposcopy It’s often possible to tell you right away if there are any abnormal cells in your cervix. But if you had a biopsy, it may take 4 to 8 weeks to get your results in the post.

Do they numb you for a cervical biopsy?

The healthcare provider may numb the area using a small needle to inject medicine. He or she may use forceps (tenaculum) to hold the cervix steady for the biopsy. You may feel some cramping when the tenaculum is put in place. The amount of tissue removed and where it is removed depend on the type of biopsy.

Do they put you to sleep for a cervical biopsy?

If you’re undergoing a cone biopsy, you’ll be given a general anesthetic that will put you to sleep. Your doctor will then insert a speculum (a medical instrument) into the vagina to keep the canal open during the procedure.

Do they always take a biopsy with a colposcopy?

Only if your doctor finds something that doesn’t look normal during your colposcopy. If they find several areas that don’t look right, they’ll biopsy those, too. Your doctor will do the biopsy right after your colposcopy. They’ll use a sharp tool to take a sample of tissue from the abnormal area.

What are the main reasons for a colposcopy biopsy?

A colposcopy and cervical biopsy is often used when a biopsy of the cervix is deemed necessary. Reasons Why It is Conducted . A colposcopy directed biopsy is a test usually advised following a Pap smear test which turns out to be positive. It is deemed necessary to look for and identify possible abnormalities.

How long does it take to get results back from a colposcopy?

Typically it takes somewhere between a couple of weeks to maximum a month to get back the results from a colposcopy. If your colposcopy came back normal, the doctor may recommend further testing to understand why your Pap smear was abnormal.

What happens after my colposcopy biopsy exam?

After a colposcopy, you may have dark vaginal discharge for up to three days, and some bleeding for up to a week. Your vagina may be sore, and you may experience mild cramping for 1 to 2 days. If no biopsy was taken, you may resume normal activity right away. If you had a biopsy, avoid the use of tampons, douches,…

Why would I need a colposcopy?

A colposcopy can be used to diagnose: abnormal cervical cells, or precancer or cancer of the cervix, vagina, or vulva. genital warts. inflammation of the cervix (cervicitis)