There are on average one to three special exams that are completed during a colposcopy, they include: - Acetic acid wash After the examination of the cervix, the cervix is then washed with the chemical acetic acid, which is diluted to about 3% to 5%. This acetic acid washes away any mucus, and allows any abnormal areas to be seen easier with the colposcope instrument. Acetic acid works by staining any abnormal areas white. The areas that are stained white after the acetic acid wash are what medical professionals call “acetowhite lesions”. Significant abnormalities can be picked up by this wash like genital warts, pre-cancers, and cancers. - Use of color filters Another special exam involves the use of color filters. The color filters help to examine tiny blood vessels in the area. If the blue or green light is noted, it is due to the cause of abnormal capillaries which become more obvious, and usually inside an acetowhite area. - Sampling, also known as a biopsy of the cervix tissues The final special exam offered during a colposcopy is a tissue sampling that targets the abnormal areas. The abnormal areas depending on the severity of the sample will depend on the treatment that will be done.