When is colposcopy recommended for HPV infection?

HPV can sometimes persist and contribute to changes in cervical cells. A positive HPV test does not by itself mean that cancer is present. Colposcopy allows a clinician to inspect the cervix under magnification and take a biopsy if an area looks unusual.

Referral depends on the HPV type or result, whether cell changes were found, and your earlier screening history. Some people are asked to repeat screening first, while others are referred sooner because the combined findings need direct assessment.

Book the appointment within the timeframe given and bring your screening letters or results. Tell the clinic if you are pregnant or might be pregnant, use blood-thinning medicine, or have a bleeding condition.

Before the visit, note bleeding after sex, bleeding between periods, discharge, or pelvic pain. Ask whether a biopsy could be taken and how to receive the result. Keep follow-up even if symptoms settle, because HPV-related cell changes may cause no symptoms.

Seek prompt assessment for unexplained bleeding after sex, bleeding between periods, unusual watery or blood-stained discharge, or ongoing pelvic pain. After a biopsy, contact the clinic for heavy bleeding, severe pain, fever, foul-smelling discharge, or faintness.

Ask whether the referral is based on HPV alone or HPV with cell changes, what the examination may involve, when results will be available, and what follow-up happens afterward.