Colposcopy
What is colposcopy?
Colposcopy is a simple examination, as much as the pap-smear. The gynecologist will examine the cervix through a microscope called a colposcope. During the colposcopic examination, special liquids (acetic acid and Lugol's solution) are applied to the cervix, which help in detecting cellular changes at the level of the epithelium covering the cervix. Colposcopy can also be performed during pregnancy as it poses no risk.
Why is it important?
The importance of colposcopy lies in its ability to detect (or exclude) cellular changes in the cervix that precede cervical cancer. In some cases, it is the first examination to detect cervical cancer.
Beyond detecting these precancerous conditions, colposcopy can also treat them by excising (removing) them through a diathermy loop.
Who performs the colposcopy and where?
A colposcopy is performed by a gynecologist with competence in colposcopy. Colposcopy can be done in a hospital or clinic. It is a diagnostic/therapeutic technique that does not require hospitalization. It lasts about 10-20 minutes and is painless.
When is colposcopy done?
Colposcopy is recommended in cases of an abnormal pap-smear or when the cervix does not look normal during a visual examination.
Before the colposcopy …
Colposcopy can be done on days without menstruation.
One day before the examination you should not perform vaginal toilet, should not insert ovules, and should not have sexual contact.
How is it done?
The steps followed in colposcopy are:
- Gynecological position
- Placement of the speculum and visualization of the cervix.
- Initial examination of the cervix
- Application of physiological solution
- Application of acetic acid
- Application of Lugol's solution
- Directed biopsy if necessary
- Removal of the speculum
- Recording of data
- Discussion of data with the patient
What can be the results of a colposcopic examination?
- Normal
- Precancerous condition (dysplasia) of the cervix
- Condyloma
- Infections
What can happen after colposcopy?
In most cases, patients do not complain about anything after colposcopy. In rare cases, they may have discomfort similar to that during menstruation. In cases where a biopsy is taken during colposcopy, patients may have light, non-troubling hemorrhagic secretions for a few days.