Colposcopy

Schedule a colposcopy for a time when you are not menstruating. The ideal timing is 1-2 weeks after your period ends to ensure clear visualisation of cervical tissue. Avoid scheduling during menstruation, as blood can obscure the view of the cervix and potentially affect the accuracy of results.

Inform our doctor about all medications and supplements you take regularly. Some medications, particularly blood thinners like aspirin or warfarin, may need adjustment before the procedure.

Abstain from vaginal intercourse, using tampons, or applying vaginal medications for at least 24-48 hours before colposcopy. These activities can irritate cervical tissue or wash away cellular abnormalities that need examination, potentially affecting the accuracy of findings.

The patient lies on an examination table with feet in stirrups, similar to a standard pelvic examination. A sheet is draped for coverage, leaving the lower body exposed for the procedure. This position allows clear access to the cervix and surrounding tissues.

A speculum is gently inserted into the vagina and opened to provide clear visualisation of the cervix. The speculum holds the vaginal walls apart throughout the procedure. Different sizes may be used to ensure proper visualisation while minimising discomfort.

Acetic acid solution is applied to the cervix using a cotton swab or spray. This highlights abnormal cells by turning them white (acetowhite effect). Lugol’s iodine solution may then be applied to differentiate tissue types, as healthy cervical tissue contains glycogen that stains brown, while abnormal tissue remains unstained.

The colposcope is positioned a few inches from the vaginal opening, providing a magnified view of the cervix and surrounding tissues. The examiner systematically assesses the transformation zone, blood vessel patterns, tissue borders, and surface contours. Different magnification levels and light filters may be used to enhance visualisation of specific tissue characteristics.

If suspicious areas are identified, small tissue samples are taken using specialised biopsy forceps. Several biopsies may be collected from different areas of concern. Each biopsy typically causes a brief cramping or pinching sensation, lasting only a few seconds per sample.

In some cases, cells from the endocervical canal, which cannot be directly visualised with the colposcope, may be collected using a small, spoon-shaped instrument. This scraping procedure takes about 10–15 seconds and may cause moderate cramping.

If biopsies are taken, bleeding is controlled using chemical agents such as silver nitrate, Monsel’s solution (ferric subsulfate), or absorbable haemostatic materials. These substances help seal the biopsy sites and prevent prolonged bleeding, though they may cause a dark discharge for a few days after the procedure.

Following colposcopy, you may experience mild cramping and light bleeding or dark-coloured discharge. The discharge may appear darker if haemostatic agents were applied to the biopsy sites. To minimise the risk of infection and avoid disrupting healing tissues, use sanitary pads instead of tampons for at least 24 hours following the procedure.

To allow for proper healing, avoid strenuous physical activities, sexual intercourse, and tampon use for 1-2 days after colposcopy, especially if a biopsy was performed. These restrictions help prevent bleeding and infection. Most patients can return to regular daily activities immediately after the procedure, though light duties may be preferable for the remainder of the day.

Cramping or discomfort can typically be managed with over-the-counter pain relievers such as paracetamol or ibuprofen. Applying a heating pad to the lower abdomen may also help alleviate cramps. Most discomfort resolves within 24 hours, though mild symptoms may persist for several days, particularly if multiple biopsies were taken.

It is crucial to attend all scheduled follow-up appointments to review the biopsy results and discuss any necessary further treatment. Results are usually available within 1–2 weeks. During the follow-up visit, our doctor will explain the findings, outline management options if abnormalities are detected, and discuss plans for ongoing monitoring or treatment.