Treatment FAQ

what is colposcopy treatment

by Mr. Baylee Wilkinson Published 2 years ago Updated 2 years ago
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A colposcopy is a test to take a closer look at your cervix. The cervix is the opening to your womb from your vagina. A colposcopy is often done if cervical screening finds changes to your cells that are caused by certain types of human papillomavirus (HPV
human papillomavirus (HPV
HPV can cause problems such as verrucas, genital warts and abnormal cell changes in the cervix. Read more about HPV. Human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) attacks the immune system. HIV infection can lead to AIDS; however, with early diagnosis and treatment, most people don't go on to develop AIDS.
https://www.nhs.uk › common-health-questions › sexual-health
). These changed cells can turn into cervical cancer cells.

Full Answer

Why no sex after colposcopy?

Posts: 3,590. Re: sex after colposcopy and biopsy. These ladies are correct (as I understand the wait after a biopsy before anything goes into the vagina). There are several reasons: 1) pain and swelling; 2) pulling stitches (if any) and/or breaking off scabs too early; 3) infection - there are open wounds (even if tiny) and anything you insert ...

How to set up a colposcopy?

Set at “0”for normal vision. Rubber cups - reduce ambient light. Optional equipment - monocular teaching tube Beam splitter for monitor hook up. Image provided by Cooper Surgical, Inc. Optics - Lighting Higher magnification = smaller field of view = ... Modern Colposcopy. Need knowledgeable assistant to take ownership of specimens and ...

When to do colposcopy?

· A colposcopy is a safe procedure to have during pregnancy. Before your colposcopy. You'll be referred for a colposcopy if your cervical screening test reveals cervical cell changes, or symptoms such as unexplained pelvic pain or vaginal bleeding need to be investigated.

Is colposcopy considered surgery?

A colposcopy (kol-POS-kuh-pee) is a method of examining the cervix, vagina, and vulva with a surgical instrument called a colposcope. The procedure is usually performed if the results of a Pap smear (the screening test used to identify abnormal cervical cells) are unusual.

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What happens if a colposcopy is abnormal?

You may need treatment if the results of your colposcopy show that there are abnormal cells in your cervix. The abnormal cells will be removed, which usually involves removing an area of the cervix about the size of a finger tip.

How long does colposcopy treatment take?

A colposcopy is usually carried out in a hospital clinic. It takes around 15 to 20 minutes and you can go home soon afterwards.

What do they do during a colposcopy?

Your doctor positions the special magnifying instrument, called a colposcope, a few inches away from your vulva. Your doctor then shines a bright light into your vagina and looks through the lens of the colposcope, as if using binoculars. Your cervix and vagina are swabbed with cotton to clear away any mucus.

Does having a colposcopy mean cancer?

Your doctor can use a colposcopy to diagnose cervical cancer, genital warts, vaginal cancer, and vulvar cancer, as well. Once your doctor gets the results from your colposcopy, they'll know whether or not you need further tests.

How painful is a colposcopy?

A colposcopy is nearly pain-free. You might feel pressure when the speculum goes in. It might also sting or burn a little when they wash your cervix with the vinegar-like solution. If you get a biopsy, you might have some discomfort.

What are the symptoms of HPV in females?

HPV can infect cells in the vagina and around the vulva. If a female has low risk HPV, they may see warts on the vulva. These warts may present as: a cluster that looks like a cauliflower....Some symptoms of vaginal cancer include :bleeding after sex.unusual discharge.a lump in the vagina.pain while having sex.

What is the next step after a colposcopy?

You'll go back to having regular pelvic exams, Pap tests, and/or HPV tests. Your doctor or nurse will tell you how often you need to have these. Or you might also need further treatment. There are 4 procedures that are very good at removing the abnormal cells and preventing cervical cancer.

What causes HPV in females?

You can get HPV by having vaginal, anal, or oral sex with someone who has the virus. It is most commonly spread during vaginal or anal sex. It also spreads through close skin-to-skin touching during sex. A person with HPV can pass the infection to someone even when they have no signs or symptoms.

How long does it take for your cervix to heal after a colposcopy?

If you feel like this, contact your GP or the colposcopy clinic where you had your treatment. It takes four to six weeks for your cervix to heal. To reduce the risk of infection during this time, you should avoid sexual contact or wearing tampons.

Does white spots on cervix mean cancer?

Typically, leukoplakia appears as a white plaque on the cervix, with a shiny, waxy surface and a sharp, raised margin. Leukoplakia due to high-grade precancerous lesions or cancer will always be in the transformation zone.

What if cervical biopsy is positive?

However, if you recently had a cervical biopsy, you may need repeated Pap and HPV testing sooner. A positive test, on the other hand, means that cancer or precancerous cells have been found and further diagnosis and treatment may be needed.

How long does it take for precancerous cells to turn into cancer?

These aren't cancer cells, but cells that may turn cancerous if left untreated for many years. It takes 10-15 years for pre-cancer to progress to cancer. If you already have cancer cells, this would show up as malignancy.

How long does it take for your cervix to heal after a colposcopy?

If you feel like this, contact your GP or the colposcopy clinic where you had your treatment. It takes four to six weeks for your cervix to heal. To reduce the risk of infection during this time, you should avoid sexual contact or wearing tampons.

How long is colposcopy recovery?

Following the procedure, a person should feel fine as soon as it is over. Light spotting or cramping may occur, but people can continue with their daily activities and do not need to avoid vaginal sex. However, if the doctor performed a biopsy, it can take 1–2 days to recover.

Do I need a colposcopy if I have HPV?

If you test positive for HPV 16/18, you will need to have a colposcopy. If you test positive for HPV (but did not have genotyping performed or had genotyping and tested negative for 16/18), you will likely have a colposcopy.

How long does it take for your cervix to heal after a biopsy?

During a cone biopsy, your healthcare provider will remove a small, cone-shaped part of your cervix. They will study it under a microscope to look for abnormal cells. It usually takes about 4 to 6 weeks for your cervix to heal after this procedure.

What Happens During A Colposcopy and Biopsy?

You’ll lie down on an exam table like you would for a pelvic exam. The doctor or nurse will put a speculum into your vagina and open it. This separ...

What Should I Know Before My appointment?

You don't have to do much to prepare for a colposcopy. Here are 2 things you can do to make things easier: 1. Schedule your colposcopy for when you...

Where Can I Get A Colposcopy?

You can get a colposcopy at your doctor or nurse’s office, some community health clinics, or your local Planned Parenthood health center.

What is a colposcopy?

Your doctor may recommend colposcopy if a Pap test or pelvic exam revealed abnormalities. Colposcopy can be used to diagnose: Genital warts. Inflammation of the cervix (cervicitis) Precancerous changes in the tissue of the cervix. Precancerous changes in the tissue of the vagina. Precancerous changes of the vulva.

How to prepare for a colposcopy?

How you prepare. To prepare for your colposcopy, your doctor may recommend that you: Avoid scheduling your colposcopy during your period. Don't have vaginal intercourse the day or two before your colposcopy. Don't use tampons the day or two before your colposcopy.

What to take before colposcopy?

Don't use vaginal medications for the two days before your colposcopy. Take an over-the-counter pain reliever, such as ibuprofen (Advil, Motrin IB, others) or acetaminophen (Tylenol, others), before going to your colposcopy appointment.

What will the results of a colposcopy tell you?

The results of your colposcopy will determine whether you'll need any further testing and treatment.

What is the procedure to take a biopsy of a tissue?

To collect the tissue, your doctor uses a sharp biopsy instrument to remove a small piece of tissue . If there are multiple suspicious areas, your doctor may take multiple biopsy samples.

What instrument is used during colposcopy?

During colposcopy, your doctor uses a special instrument called a colposcope. Your doctor may recommend colposcopy if your Pap test result is abnormal. If your doctor finds an unusual area of cells during your colposcopy procedure, a sample of tissue can be collected for laboratory testing (biopsy). You may experience anxiety before your colposcopy ...

What can be applied to the biopsy area to limit bleeding?

Your doctor may apply a chemical solution to the biopsy area to limit bleeding.

Where can I get a colposcopy?

You can get a colposcopy at your doctor or nurse’s office, some community health clinics, or your local Planned Parenthood health center.

When to schedule colposcopy?

Schedule your colposcopy for when you won’t have your period or when the bleeding is light. That makes it easier to see your cervix.

What happens during a colposcopy and biopsy?

You’ll lie down on an exam table like you would for a pelvic exam. The doctor or nurse will put a speculum into your vagina and open it. This separates the walls of your vagina so they can get a really good look at your cervix.

How long does it take to get a biopsy of the cervix?

The other takes tissue from inside the opening of your cervix. Sometimes you need more than one biopsy. A colposcopy and biopsy only takes about 5-10 minutes.

Does a colposcopy hurt?

A colposcopy is nearly pain-free. You might feel pressure when the speculum goes in. It might also sting or burn a little when they wash your cervix with the vinegar-like solution.

What is colposcopy used for?

A colposcopy is used to determine whether treatment will be needed to deal with these cells.

What happens during a colposcopy?

The procedure is usually carried out in an outpatient hospital clinic by a specialist called a colposcopist . This can be a doctor or a specially trained nurse.

How long does it take for a colposcopy to show abnormal cells?

The colposcopist will usually be able to tell straight away if there are abnormal cells in your cervix. Biopsy results usually take about 4 weeks and a copy will be sent to both you and your GP in the post. About 4 out of 10 women who have a colposcopy have a normal result.

What is the procedure to find abnormal cells on or in a woman's cervix?

Introduction. A colposcopy is a procedure to find out whether there are abnormal cells on or in a woman's cervix or vagina. The cervix is the part of the womb that sits in the vagina. Abnormalities tend to occur at the opening of the cervix to the birth canal, where it enters the womb. A colposcopy allows a doctor or trained nurse ...

How many women have a colposcopy?

About 4 out of 10 women who have a colposcopy have a normal result. A normal result means your cervix appears healthy and you have a low risk of developing cervical cancer before your next screening test. Depending on your age, you'll be invited for a cervical screening appointment in 3 or 5 years.

Why is it important to attend a cervical screening?

As cervical cancer detected through screening tends to be diagnosed at an early stage, the outcome of treatment tends to be better. This is why it's important for women to attend their screening test when invited.

How successful is cervical cancer treatment?

Removing abnormal cervical cells is usually successful (about a 90% success rate). You should be invited for a follow-up cervical screening test to check that the treatment has been successful.

What is colposcopy?

Colposcopy is a gynecological procedure that illuminates and magnifies the vulva, vaginal walls, and uterine cervix in order to detect and examine abnormalities of these structures. The cervix is the base of the womb (uterus) and leads out to the birth canal (vagina). During colposcopy, special tests [acetic acid wash, use of color filters, and sampling (biopsy) of tissues] can be done. Colposcopy is not to be confused with culdoscopy, which is the insertion of an instrument through the wall of the vagina in order to view the pelvic area behind the vagina.

How is colposcopy done?

It also has color filters that allow the physician to detect tiny abnormal blood vessels on the cervix. The colposcope is used to examine the vaginal walls and cervix through the vaginal opening.

What is the procedure for cervical abnormalities?

The treatments for cervical abnormalities include the destruction (ablation) procedures - cryocautery and carbon dioxide laser -- and the removal (resection) procedures -- loop electrosurgical excision procedure ( LEEP ), cold knife conization, and hysterectomy.

Why is the squamocolumnar junction not visible on colposcopy?

Colposcopy, therefore, is occasionally not adequate in women after menopause. Therefore, if the whole squamocolumnar junction area of the cervix is not visible on colposcopy, another type of procedure may need to be performed that allows the entire squamocolumnar junction to be examined. (See cold knife cone biopsy below.)

Why do you need a colposcopy for a Pap smear?

The purpose of the colposcopy is to determine what is causing the abnormal looking cervix or the abnormal Pap smear so that appropriate treatment can be given.

Why is colposcopy important?

In fact, the biopsy of abnormal areas is a critical part of colposcopy because treatment will depend on how severe the abnormality is on the biopsy sample.

What is the procedure that magnifies the vaginal walls?

Colposcopy is a gynecological procedure that illuminates and magnifies the vulva, vaginal walls, and uterine cervix in order to detect and examine abnormalities of these structures. Colposcopy is a procedure used by physicians that provides a magnified and illuminated view of the vulva, vaginal walls, and uterine cervix.

What is a colposcopy?

Summary. A colposcopy is a minimally invasive procedure that helps a doctor examine the cervix to see if any abnormal cells are present. This article describes and explains what a person can expect during and after a colposcopy.

What is colposcopy for cervical cancer?

In some cases, a colposcopy may include an endocervical curettage. This procedure involves taking a sample of the cervical canal and is a more thorough process than a Pap test.

What is the procedure called to examine a person's cervix?

A doctor may use a colposcopy to identify abnormal cells in the cervix. By using a colposcopy, a doctor can examine a person’s cervix more closely. The procedure can help determine if abnormal cells are present. To perform the procedure, a doctor uses a specialized tool called a colposcope.

Why do doctors use colposcopes?

They use the colposcope to get a closer look at the cervix to find out why the cells may be abnormal.

Why cauterize biopsy area?

On occasions, a doctor may use another solution to cauterize the area of a biopsy to decrease bleeding and form a scab.

How long does it take to get a colposcopy?

The entire colposcopy procedure typically takes between 5–10 minutes.

What is the tool used to examine the cervix?

To perform the procedure, a doctor uses a specialized tool called a colposcope. A colposcope provides enough light and magnification to allow a doctor to examine the cervix more easily.

Why do I need a colposcopy?

The usual reason for needing a colposcopy is because you have had an abnormal cervical screening test result. This happens quite commonly, so you should try not to be too alarmed. Remember that in most cases, an abnormal cervical screening test does not mean you have cancer of the neck of the womb (cervical cancer). It is rare for cervical cancer to be diagnosed this way.

What should I expect when I have my colposcopy?

The whole procedure normally takes about 15-20 minutes. It may be longer if you have treatment at the same time (see below). It is best to allow an hour for the whole visit:

What is the difference between colposcopy and cervical screening?

A cervical screening test is offered regularly to all women to prevent cancer of the neck of the womb (cervical cancer). The cervical screening test is looking for early changes (or abnormalities) in the cervical cells, that, if left untreated, might develop into cancer in the future. See the separate leaflet called Cervical Screening (Cervical Smear Test) for more details.

What are the risks or complications of colposcopy?

Colposcopy is generally safe. Some women find that it is a little uncomfortable. Rarely, complications can occur. These can include heavy bleeding and infection. If you experience any heavy bleeding, smelly vaginal discharge or severe lower tummy (abdominal) pain, you should see a doctor as soon as possible.

What is the name of the microscope used to look at the cervix?

The doctor or nurse uses a special microscope, called a colposcope , to look at the cells of the cervix in detail. A liquid is painted on to the cervix to show up any abnormal cells. During colposcopy a small piece of tissue may be taken from the cervix. This is known as a biopsy.

Why can't you see abnormal cells during colposcopy?

Sometimes, all of the abnormal cells cannot be seen during colposcopy because the cells go further up into the neck of the womb (cervix). If this happens, the doctor or nurse will usually suggest that you have a minor operation called a cone biopsy.

How long after cervical screening can you repeat?

About 1 cervical screening test in 8 is abnormal. If the result is not normal then the advice may be to repeat the test within the following 12 months, or a colposcopy may be recommended.

When treatment is carried out

During your colposcopy it may be obvious to the doctor or nurse that you have abnormal cells. If it is, treatment to remove the cells can sometimes be done at the same time. This normally takes 5 or 10 minutes.

After treatment

You can often go home soon after the treatment. Most people feel well enough to return to work and carry out normal activities the next day.

Risks to future pregnancy

Treatment for abnormal cervical cells will not affect your chances of getting pregnant.

What is a colposcopy?

A colposcopy is carried out by a specialist called a colposcopist. This may be a doctor or a trained nurse. During the procedure: you undress from the waist down (a loose skirt may not need to be removed) and lie down in a chair with padded supports for your legs.

How long does it take to get a colposcopy?

Overview. What happens. Results. Treatments. A colposcopy is usually carried out in a hospital clinic. It takes around 15 to 20 minutes and you can go home soon afterwards.

How long does it take for a biopsy to stop bleeding?

you may have a brownish vaginal discharge, or light bleeding if you had a biopsy – this is normal and should stop after 3 to 5 days. wait until any bleeding stops before having sex or using tampons, menstrual cups, vaginal medicines, lubricants or creams.

What is the device that is inserted into your vagina and gently opened?

a device called a speculum is inserted into your vagina and gently opened – similar to having a cervical screening test. a microscope with a light (a colposcope) is used to look at your cervix – this stays outside your vagina. liquids are applied to your cervix to highlight any abnormal areas – you may feel a mild tingling or burning sensation ...

How long does it take to get a biopsy result?

If you have had a biopsy, it will be checked in a laboratory and you'll need to wait a few weeks to receive your result by post.

Is colposcopy safe?

A colposcopy is a very safe procedure that does not cause any serious problems.

Can you go home after a colposcopy?

After a colposcopy. After having a colposcopy: you'll be able to go home as soon as you feel ready, usually straight afterwards. you can return to your normal activities, including work and driving, immediately – although you may prefer to rest until the next day.

What is the CIN in colposcopy?

Colposcopy offers an accurate way to diagnose cervical intraepithelial neoplasia ( CIN) and to differentiate high grade lesions from low grade abnormalities. The positive predictive value ( PPV) of a colposcopic diagnosis is dependent on the prevalence of the disease in the referred population. According to research published in 2015, 2018 and 2019, the highest prevalence is found in individuals referred with a high grade cytology result, the lowest in individuals referred with persistent hrHPV and negative cytology.

How long does it take to see a patient after a colposcopy?

Refer patients to colposcopy for further investigation. At least 93% of patients should be seen within 2 weeks of referral.

When deciding on treatment (and especially if destructive methods are being considered), what are associated cytological and col?

When deciding on treatment (and especially if destructive methods are being considered), associated cytological and colposcopic findings are as important as the result of directed biopsy. All individuals needing treatment must have had colposcopic assessment, and treatment must take place in properly equipped and staffed clinics. All treatment must be recorded in the colposcopy database and patient notes.

How long after CGIN excision should you take a TOC?

If the CGIN has been completely excised at the time of first excision or subsequent re-excision, a test of cure ( TOC) sample should be taken 6 months after treatment. If negative for hrHPV a second TOC sample is taken 12 months later (18 months after treatment or the subsequent re-excision). If this is also negative for hrHPV the individual can be recalled for screening in 3 years. These samples can be performed in the community.

When should a biopsy be carried out?

Unless an excisional treatment is planned, biopsy should be carried out when the cytology is high grade, and always when a recognisably atypical transformation zone is present . For cases occurring in pregnancy see chapter 4 (Management of cases relating to pregnancy, contraception, menopause and hysterectomy).

When should cervical screening be repeated?

Where an initial cytology sample is inadequate, the repeat cytology sample should be taken no less than 3 months after the date of the first sample.

Should pain control be performed with local anesthesia?

Treatment should be performed with adequate pain control and should include pre-treatment counselling. Treatment should be offered with local analgesia. Where this is inappropriate, general anaesthesia should be offered. Reasons for treating under general anaesthesia should be recorded in the colposcopy record. The proportion of individuals managed as out-patients with local anaesthesia should be at least 85%, with an achievable target of 90%.

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Overview

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Colposcopy (kol-POS-kuh-pee) is a procedure to closely examine your cervix, vagina and vulva for signs of disease. During colposcopy, your doctor uses a special instrument called a colposcope. Your doctor may recommend colposcopy if your Pap test result is abnormal. If your doctor finds an unusual area of cells duri…
See more on mayoclinic.org

Why It's Done

  • Your doctor may recommend colposcopy if a Pap test or pelvic exam revealed abnormalities. Colposcopy can be used to diagnose: 1. Genital warts 2. Inflammation of the cervix (cervicitis) 3. Precancerous changes in the tissue of the cervix 4. Precancerous changes in the tissue of the vagina 5. Precancerous changes of the vulva
See more on mayoclinic.org

Risks

  • Colposcopy is a safe procedure that carries very few risks. Rarely, complications from biopsies taken during colposcopy can occur, including: 1. Heavy bleeding 2. Infection 3. Pelvic pain
See more on mayoclinic.org

How You Prepare

  • To prepare for your colposcopy, your doctor may recommend that you: 1. Avoid scheduling your colposcopy during your period 2. Don't have vaginal intercourse the day or two before your colposcopy 3. Don't use tampons the day or two before your colposcopy 4. Don't use vaginal medications for the two days before your colposcopy 5. Take an over-the-counter pain reliever, s…
See more on mayoclinic.org

What You Can Expect

  • During the colposcopy
    Colposcopy is usually done in a doctor's office, and the procedure typically takes 10 to 20 minutes. You'll lie on your back on a table with your feet in supports, just as during a pelvic exam or Pap test. The doctor places a metal speculum in your vagina. The speculum holds open the w…
  • During the biopsy
    If your doctor finds a suspicious area, a small sample of tissue may be collected for laboratory testing. To collect the tissue, your doctor uses a sharp biopsy instrument to remove a small piece of tissue. If there are multiple suspicious areas, your doctor may take multiple biopsy samples. …
See more on mayoclinic.org

Results

  • Before you leave your colposcopy appointment, ask your doctor when you can expect the results. Also ask for a phone number you may call in the event you don't hear back from your doctor within a specified time. The results of your colposcopy will determine whether you'll need any further testing and treatment.
See more on mayoclinic.org

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