What to Expect During Your Colposcopy
A colposcopy is performed in our office and usually takes 10 to 20 minutes. It is very similar to a routine pelvic exam but uses a specialized magnifying instrument called a colposcope.
- The Setup: You will lie on the exam table with your feet in stirrups, just as you do for a Pap smear. Your provider inserts a speculum to hold the vaginal walls open.
- The Evaluation: Your provider positions the colposcope a few inches away from the vulva. A solution of dilute acetic acid (vinegar) is applied to the cervix with a cotton swab. This solution highlights any abnormal areas, making them easier to see through the magnifying lens.
- The Biopsy: If your provider sees areas of concern, a small sample of tissue (a biopsy) may be taken for further lab analysis.
- The Sensation: You may feel a mild stinging or burning sensation from the vinegar solution. If a biopsy is necessary, you might feel a sharp pinch or cramp.
How to Prepare for Your Appointment
To ensure the most accurate viewing of the cervical tissue, please follow these guidelines:
Timing Your Visit:
- Do not schedule your colposcopy during the heaviest days of your menstrual period.
48 Hours Before Your Test:
For two days leading up to your procedure, please avoid:
- Vaginal intercourse
- Using tampons
- Using vaginal medications, creams, or lubricants
Comprehensive Care for the Concerns That Matter Most
Our providers offer a full range of gynecologic services — from routine preventive care to evaluation and treatment of specific health concerns. Click any item below to learn more.
- Annual or “well-woman” exams
- Adolescent gynecology
- Breast exams & breast pain
- Pap smears
- Colposcopy
- Contraception (hormonal and non-hormonal)
- IUD consultations, insertion, removal & management (Mirena, Paragard, Nexplanon)
- HPV vaccination (Gardasil)
- Management of abnormal Pap tests
- STD testing, information, and treatment
Recovery and Aftercare
Most women can return to their normal activities immediately after a colposcopy. However, if a biopsy was taken, you should follow these recovery steps:
- Activity: Avoid heavy exercise for 24 hours.
- Physical Care: Do not use tampons, douches, or have vaginal intercourse for at least one week after a biopsy, or as directed by your provider.
- What is Normal: You may experience mild cramping and light spotting or a dark discharge for a few days. This is normal and is often caused by the solution used to control bleeding at the biopsy site.
Frequently Asked Questions
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