A colposcopy is a diagnostic procedure designed to examine the cervix, the opening to the womb from the vagina.
In a colposcopy procedure, a microscope is used to have a closer look at the cervix. You may be offered a colposcopy after a smear test, but the procedure can also be used to find out the cause of other symptoms, for example, vaginal bleeding following sexual intercourse. A colposcopy biopsy, where a sample of tissue is taken for further testing, may follow the procedure.
The colposcopy procedure is very quick, taking just 15 to 20 minutes from start to finish. An anaesthetic is not usually necessary as the procedure doesn’t hurt, although some women may experience mild discomfort.
A colposcopy procedure may feel a little bit daunting, but it is a highly effective diagnostic tool used to identify illnesses such as cancer. Most of the time, a colposcopy will find nothing of concern. But if you do feel anxious about your colposcopy, speak to one of our expert medical team who will help to put your mind at rest.