A colposcopy is a procedure to take a closer look at your cervix. The cervix is the opening to you womb from your vagina. A colposcopy is often done if cervical screening finds changes to your cells that are caused by certain types of human papillomavirus (HPV). These cells are not cancer but there is a risk they could eventually turn into cervical cancer if not treated.

You may be offered a colposcopy after getting the results of your cervical screening (smear test) if:

  • The results of your smear test showed changes to the cells of your cervix,
  • It was not possible to get a clear result after several screening tests.

A colposcopy can also be used to find out the cause of other symptoms such as unusual vaginal bleeding (for example, bleeding after sex).

If you are invited for a colposcopy, please contact us before your appointment if:

  • You think you will be having your period at the time of your appointment as your appointment may need to be rescheduled,
  • You’re pregnant or think you may be pregnant—it is safe to have a colposcopy when pregnant but you need to tell us before you attend,
  • You’d like someone to be in the room with you (a chaperone) for example, someone you know, a nurse or member of staff,
  • You need an interpreter.

For the 24 hours before your colposcopy (unless advised otherwise by our department):

  • Do not have penetrative vaginal sex,
  • Do not use any products that you place inside your vagina such as tampons, vaginal creams or medicines.

You might have some minor bleeding after the colposcopy, so it is a good idea to bring a pad or panty liner to the appointment.

If you have a coil (IUD or Mirena coil) it does not usually need to be taken out but tell the person doing the colposcopy that you have one.

At your first visit to the Colposcopy Unit, you will be asked about your medical history and we will explain why your appointment is necessary. The staff in the clinic will be happy to try and answer any questions you may have.

Once you fully understand the procedure the doctor/nurse will place an instrument in the vagina just as your GP or Practice Nurse did when you had your smear taken.

The cervix will be examined using the microscope and to highlight any abnormal areas we will apply solutions to your cervix. A biopsy (a small piece of tissue) may need to be taken from the cervix. We will discuss this with you before proceeding. During a biopsy you may feel a ‘pinching’ sensation. There should be very little, if any, discomfort.

If, when we examine you the neck of your womb looks like it needs treatment it can be done at you first visit, usually under local anaesthetic. At other times it is necessary to wait for your biopsy result. In certain cases it is decided that your treatment should be carried out in theatre. Whatever your plan of care it will be fully explained to you during your visit.

Please talk these options over with the doctor/nurse in the unit. It is important any problems or concerns you may have are sorted out right away. We would recommend avoiding unprotected sexual intercourse for at least 7 days prior to your appointment. This is a precaution in case treatment is needed at your first visit or if you are returning for treatment. This is to reduce the risk of unplanned pregnancy.

A copy of your results will be sent to you and your GP (usually 6-8 weeks). We will inform you if we are intending to carry out a treatment at your next visit or, if you have already had treatment carried out, when and there your follow up will be.