Just like your annual screenings, a colposcopy can be performed at either your primary care doctor’s office or your gynecologist’s office, and performed in a similar manner. You will be lying down on the exam table, placing your heels in the stirrups at the end of the table. Your doctor will use an instrument called a speculum, which is inserted into the vagina to give the doctor a clearer view of your cervix, and apply a solution that allows them to see the abnormal areas. The colposcopy device is positioned as close to the vagina as possible, but is not put inside the body. If your doctor identifies anything that looks unhealthy, they will perform a biopsy by removing a small sample of tissue to then be tested by a pathologist. A pathologist will examine the tissue sample under a microscope to identify any abnormal cells. A colposcopy can identify if cancer or precancerous tissue are present, but only after an examination of the cells of tissue by a pathologist can a diagnosis be made. It is also possible that if the abnormal area is very small, your doctor may be able remove the entire area during the biopsy. There are some important suggestions your doctor will provide you with prior to your colposcopy procedure, such as: • Stop use of vaginal medicines, creams, powders or foams • Avoid vaginal intercourse. • Avoid tampon use or any vaginal product. • Do not request the week of your period. • Inform your doctor if you are, or might be pregnant. • Ask your doctor about over the counter pain medication in case of biopsy. The colposcopy procedure has no side effects, however, if a biopsy is performed during the colposcopy, for a few days following you may experience vaginal discharge from the solution used by your doctor to reduce bleeding during the biopsy. It is possible you might experience cramping, soreness or bleeding, and if any of these symptoms persist or get worse or accompanied by a fever, call your doctor immediately.