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Colposcopy is an examination performed by the gynecologist indicated to assess the vulva, vagina and cervix in a very detailed way, looking for signs that may indicate inflammation or the presence of diseases, such as HPV and cancer.
This test is simple and does not hurt, but it can cause a little discomfort and a burning sensation when the gynecologist applies products that help to better observe the cervix and the vagina. During the exam, if the doctor checks for the presence of any suspicious changes, you can collect a sample for a biopsy.
What is it for
As the purpose of colposcopy is to look in more detail at the vulva, vagina and cervix, this test can be performed to:
- Identify lesions indicative of cervical cancer;
- Investigate the cause of excessive and / or nonspecific vaginal bleeding;
- Check for the presence of precancerous lesions in the vagina and vulva;
- Analyze genital warts or other lesions that can be identified visually.
Colposcopy is usually indicated after abnormal pap smear results, however it can also be requested as a routine gynecological exam, and can be performed together with the pap smear. Understand what the Pap smear is and how it is done.
How is the preparation
To perform the colposcopy, it is recommended that the woman does not have sexual intercourse for at least 2 days before the exam, even if using condoms. In addition, it is also important to avoid introducing any medication or object into the vagina, such as creams or tampons, and avoiding vaginal douching.
It is also recommended that the woman is not menstruating, is not using antibiotics and that she takes the result of the last pap smear test or one that she has recently had, such as transvaginal ultrasound, abdominal ultrasound or blood tests.
How colposcopy is done
Colposcopy is a simple and quick exam in which the woman needs to be in a gynecological position for the procedure to be performed. Then, the doctor will follow the following steps to perform the colposcopy:
- Introduction of a small instrument called a speculum in the vagina, to keep the vaginal canal open and allow better observation;
- Place the colposcope, which looks like binoculars, in front of the woman to allow an enlarged view of the vagina, vulva and cervix;
- Apply different products to the cervix to identify changes in the region. It is during this time that the woman may feel a little burning.
In addition, during the procedure, the doctor can also use the instrument to take enlarged photographs of the cervix, vulva or vagina to place on the final examination report.
If changes are identified during the exam, the doctor can collect a small sample from the region for the biopsy to be performed, making it possible to know whether the change identified is benign or malignant and, in this case, it will be possible to initiate appropriate treatment. Understand how the biopsy is done and how to understand the result.
Is it possible to have colposcopy during pregnancy?
Colposcopy can also be performed normally during pregnancy, as it does not cause any harm to the fetus, even if the procedure is done with biopsy.
If any changes are identified, the doctor will assess whether the treatment can be postponed until after delivery, when a new exam will be done to assess the evolution of the problem.