Is colposcopy done with colposcope?

A colposcope is a lighted magnifying instrument positioned near the vaginal opening. It does not enter the vagina. A speculum is used to hold the vaginal walls apart so the clinician can view the cervix, apply solutions that help show areas of changed tissue and decide whether a biopsy is needed.

Colposcopy is usually performed while you are awake. You may feel pressure from the speculum and a brief pinch if a tissue sample is taken. The procedure looks closely at the cervix; the colposcope itself does not remove tissue.

Tell the clinic if you may be pregnant, take blood-thinning medicine or have an allergy. Ask what to expect if a biopsy is planned. Afterward, follow the clinic's instructions about activity and vaginal products, and keep the results appointment so any recommended care is clear.

Seek advice for bleeding that is heavy or increasing, severe pain, fever, foul-smelling discharge or feeling unwell after colposcopy. Ask for urgent help if you feel faint or cannot manage the symptoms safely.

Ask why colposcopy is recommended, whether a biopsy is likely, how discomfort will be managed, when results will be available and which symptoms should prompt a call.