When is colposcopy recommended for cervical dysplasia?

Cervical dysplasia means that some cells on the cervix look abnormal. It is not the same as invasive cervical cancer. Colposcopy uses a magnifying instrument to inspect the cervix, and a small biopsy may be taken if an area needs laboratory assessment.

A referral can follow an abnormal HPV or cervical cell result, a result that persists on repeat testing, or an appearance that needs explanation. The exact recommendation depends on the result category, previous history, age, pregnancy, and local clinical guidance.

Attend the appointment or ask the clinic how soon it should happen. Tell the team if you are pregnant, might be pregnant, take blood-thinning medicine, or have unusual bleeding. Use a pad rather than a tampon after a biopsy if advised, and follow the clinic's instructions about sex and vaginal medicines.

Bring your screening results and a list of medicines. Write down questions about whether a biopsy is planned, when results will arrive, and what follow-up may be needed.

After colposcopy or biopsy, seek clinical advice for heavy bleeding, worsening pelvic pain, fever, foul-smelling discharge, or feeling faint. A small amount of spotting or dark discharge can occur after a biopsy, but symptoms that worsen need review.

Ask which result led to referral, whether dysplasia appears low or high grade, whether a biopsy is needed, and when the follow-up plan will be explained.