Information Sheet for Patients
Why do you need a colposcopy?
If your smear test has shown abnormal cells in your cervix, then an appointment
will have been made for you to go to a Colposcopy Clinic. As your doctor will have
explained, an abnormal smear can arise for many reasons, and does not necessarily
mean that you are going to develop cancer. Colposcopy enables a doctor to
examine your cervix, and to see what treatment (if any) is necessary.
What happens at the colposcopy clinic?
You will be met at the clinic by a nurse who will introduce herself, and answer any
questions you might have (it often helps to make a list of questions you want to ask
before coming). She will also ask you for the date of your last period. You will be
asked to undress, and it is a good idea to wear a full skirt, because this will not need
to be removed. You will then lie on a specially designed couch which supports your
legs. The couch can be adjusted, and if you are uncomfortable, you can tell the
nurse, who will make the necessary adaptations. As in the smear test, a doctor will
use a speculum to open your vagina so that the cervix can be clearly seen. The
colposcope itself, a type of microscope, is not put inside you. The doctor will then
examine your cervix, something that usually takes about 10 minutes. Sometimes, a
biopsy (a small piece of skin) is taken. This does not usually hurt, but can be a little
uncomfortable, and for this reason, a local anaesthetic is usually given. After the
examination, most people feel fine, but you may want to take it easy for a while,
and, particularly if you have had a biopsy, to avoid intercourse for a few days.
When will I know the results?
After the examination, the doctor will answer any questions you have, and will
either give you an appointment at the clinic to discuss the results, or ask you to
make an appointment with your family doctor.
What treatment may follow?
In many cases treatment is given during the examination. This is painless, and
involves the killing of the abnormal cells either by heat, by laser treatment, or by
freezing them. Occasionally, the affected area is not visible to the colposcope, and a
biopsy from the canal leading to the womb may need to be taken. This procedure,
known as 'cone biopsy' requires a general anaesthetic and a short stay in the hospital.
What if you are pregnant?
Colposcopy will not usually be carried out if you are pregnant, and your
appointment will be delayed until three months after your baby is born. If you are
having your period, colposcopy is not possible, and you should contact the clinic to
postpone your appointment.
If you have any further questions about colposcopy, feel free to telephone your
local clinic and speak to the sister in charge, who will be happy to answer your
queries.
Further Information: For the latest information on this condition and support or self help Groups call the Health Information Service on 0800 665544
