Colposcopy: An Introduction and What to Expect From Your Procedure

 

Colposcopy is a medical procedure that provides detailed visual analysis of the cervix, vagina, and vulva. This procedure helps your doctor diagnose cervical cancer and precancerous conditions such as atypical adenosis or dysplastic changes. Therefore, colposcopic examination is essential in the early detection of these conditions.

At Meridia Gynecology, Dr David Gerber uses the most up to date colposcopes and viewing system so that you can see what we are doing and participate if you wish. A Colposcope is nothing more than a sophisticated microscope that we look through to see abnormal areas using high magnification. This helps see areas which may need treatment or removal at some time.

 

What is colposcopy?

Colposcopy is a procedure that involves a health-care provider using a magnifying lens to examine the genital area. It is used to evaluate abnormal cell growth on the cervix, vulva, or vagina. It may also be used to detect the presence of certain conditions, such as Candidiasis or Endometriosis. Cervical colposcopy is a low-risk, outpatient procedure performed to identify abnormalities of the cervix, including abnormal cell growth. It can also be used to diagnose and screen for other conditions, such as endometriosis and genital warts. Cervical colposcopy is often used to diagnose some types of abnormal cell growth on the cervix, such as dysplasia (precancerous cells), endocervical infections, and cervical cancer. Endocervical inflammation, infection, or cancer is enlarged and has an abnormal appearance.

 

How does colposcopy work?

During a cervical colposcopy, Toronto gynecologist Dr David Gerber uses a special device and a magnifying lens to examine the inside of your body. A colposcope works like an endoscope, but it’s used to examine the cervix. A colposcope looks like a microscope with a light at the tip. It allows your doctor to see the tissues inside your body clearly. Colposcopy works by using a colposcope to look at the cervix and nearby tissues on a high magnification. Your doctor will then use a device called a colposcope to view the cervix and nearby tissues on a high magnification. To examine the cervix, your doctor will place a speculum into your vagina and place a colposcope on your lower abdomen. Your doctor will then gently move the colposcope around to examine the cervix.

 

What does colposcopy test for?

When labiaplasty surgeon Dr David Gerber performs colposcopy, he checks for cancerous cells or cells that could become cancerous if left untreated (also known as cervical dysplasia). It is important that your provider checks your cervix, vagina, and external genitals (vulva) for these cells. Additionally, colposcopies can detect genital warts and polyps, both of which are noncancerous growths.

 

Your provider may recommend a colposcopy to evaluate other symptoms, such as abnormal vaginal bleeding or vulvar itching. Some women get screened for cervical cancer using a Pap test. If you get Pap tests every year, you don’t need to be screened for abnormal cell growth. If you are unsure if you should be screened for abnormal cell growth, your doctor can help you decide.

 

What to expect during colposcopy?

A colposcopy can be performed in a medical office or clinic. It usually takes between 10 and 20 minutes to complete the procedure. After your procedure, you should be able to go home the same day.