What is colposcopy?

Colposcopy is a procedure that gives your provider an up-close look at your cervix and its cells. The procedure involves a specialized microscope-like instrument called a colposcope, which shines a light on your cervix and magnifies the image through a viewfinder. 

During colposcopies at Oasis Women’s Wellness Center, the team looks for cellular changes that could indicate cervical cancer or several other conditions. In some cases, they also take a tissue biopsy from the cervix. 

Before collecting cells, the team soaks your cervix in a vinegar solution that turns abnormal tissues white. You may feel pinching or cramping as they collect a cell sample. They go over their findings with you and tell you if you need any further testing.

When do I need a colposcopy?

The team at Oasis Women’s Wellness Center lets you know that you need a colposcopy after detecting possible abnormal changes of the cervix during a pelvic examination and Pap smear. 

A Pap smear is a screening test that you get every three years, starting at age 21, during your annual well-woman exam. It can diagnose changes that could lead to cervical cancer in the future. 

The team at Oasis Women’s Wellness Center can also use the colposcope to diagnose or detect:

• Abnormal bleeding
• Polyps
• Genital warts 
• Vaginal or vulvar cancer

The team may also recommend colposcopy if you test positive for human papillomavirus (HPV), which is a major risk factor for cervical cancer. It can also cause genital warts. 

How should I prepare for my colposcopy?

Preparing for a colposcopy is a lot like preparing for a normal pelvic exam. While there isn’t much you need to do, certain behaviors and circumstances can affect the results, and you might need to consider rescheduling the test in some instances. 

The team at Oasis Women’s Wellness Center explains the process to you in detail, so you know exactly what to expect during your colposcopy. To prepare effectively, you should:

• Let them know if you may be pregnant
• Tell them about any allergies you have
• Tell them which medications you take
• Avoid using tampons for 24 hours
• Avoid sexual intercourse for 24 hours
• Avoid vaginal creams and medications for 24 hours
• Take a pain reliever 30 minutes before the appointment
• Reschedule if you get your period

The team may have other instructions for you to follow before you come in for your colposcopy based on your health status. 

To find out if a colposcopy could benefit you, call Oasis Women’s Wellness Center or book an appointment online today.