Do you need colposcopy after a cervical screening test?

Cervical screening checks for high-risk HPV and cell changes on the cervix. An abnormal result does not by itself diagnose cancer. The recommended next step depends on the HPV finding, the degree of cell change, your previous results and your clinician’s assessment.

A colposcopy uses a magnifying instrument to examine the cervix. The clinician may apply solutions that make unusual areas easier to see and may take a small sample for laboratory assessment.

Read the result letter carefully and arrange the follow-up it specifies. Bring details of previous cervical screening, pregnancy or possible pregnancy, bleeding between periods, and medicines that affect bleeding. If colposcopy is advised, ask how to prepare and whether you should avoid vaginal medicines or sex before the appointment.

Contact a clinician promptly for bleeding after sex, unusual vaginal bleeding, persistent watery or blood-stained discharge, or pelvic pain. Seek urgent help for heavy bleeding, severe pain, faintness or fever, especially after a cervical procedure.

Ask which part of the result led to the recommendation, whether observation is an option, whether a biopsy may be taken, and when you should expect the next result.