Colposcopy

Your doctor may recommend a colposcopy if your Pap smear result is abnormal. A colposcopy lets your doctor examine abnormal cervical cells more closely to decide the best way to proceed.

The University of Kansas Health System offers evidence-based care for abnormal Pap smear results. Our board-certified and fellowship-trained physicians provide leading-edge diagnosis and treatment for women with abnormal Pap smears.

A colposcopy allows your doctor to examine your vulva, vagina and cervix using a colposcope, a device that magnifies the doctor's view. This magnification lets your doctor better evaluate any irregular cells.

Your doctor may also perform the loop electrosurgical excision procedure (LEEP) during your colposcopy. After identifying suspicious tissue, your doctor can use the LEEP tool to remove the abnormal tissue.

LEEP can be used to detect cervical cancer and other conditions of the cervix or vagina, and may be used for diagnosis, treatment or both. Additional treatment options for abnormal cervical cells include referral for laser treatments or freezing of the abnormal tissue.

Doctors will perform a colposcopy for women who have had Pap smear results that indicate abnormal cervical cells. In some cases, your doctor may want to schedule a colposcopy to find out the causes of other vaginal health concerns, such as unusual bleeding.

A colposcopy can look for:

• Cervical inflammation
• Genital warts
• Precancerous changes in the cervix, vagina or vulva

Getting a colposcopy is considered a safe procedure with few risks. Detecting cervical cancer early can be lifesaving. In rare cases, there may be complications after a colposcopy such as heavy bleeding, infection or pelvic pain. The potential for risks associated with colposcopy is reduced by the expertise of your physician.

To prepare for your colposcopy, your doctor may ask you to stop any vaginal treatments that could affect the procedure. You will also need to refrain from tampon use and vaginal sex for 1-2 days before your colposcopy. Also, a colposcopy can’t be performed during your period.

Some women take an over-the-counter pain medication before their colposcopy to limit discomfort from the procedure.

Getting a colposcopy feels similar to getting a Pap test or other pelvic exam, and takes place on a table with your feet in supports. The procedure generally takes 10-20 minutes. During your colposcopy, your doctor will first use a speculum to open your vagina, then positions the colposcope to check the affected area. The colposcope has a light as well as a magnifying lens.

In addition to a visual exam, your doctor may apply a vinegar solution that will help identify any suspicious tissue that should be biopsied, or removed for assessment. The tissue is delivered to a pathologist for analysis. Your care team will discuss the pathology results with you and recommend a care plan if necessary.

After your colposcopy, you can expect some pain and spotting that lasts 1-2 days. You should continue to abstain from vaginal intercourse and tampon use or vaginal medication for as long as your doctor recommends.

Our nationally recognized physicians specialize in the leading-edge treatment of gynecological conditions for women who receive abnormal Pap smear results.