Colposcopy is a procedure used to look closely at the cervix, vagina, and vulva to detect any abnormalities when abnormalities are detected. The method is used to diagnose and treat pre-clinical and cervical cancer caused by human papillomavirus (HPV). For women who have tested positive for HPV, a colposcopy is essential in managing their health.
This comprehensive guide to colposcopy for HPV-positive women will cover the basics of the procedure, what to expect during the exam, and how to best prepare for the appointment. With the right information, women can be better informed and more confident in their choices regarding their health.
The nGyn colposcope will help examine the cervical screening with the imaging facilities, using white and green LEDs to see any abnormalities of the cervix. It will assist the doctor in giving the correct diagnosis to the patient.
What is colposcopy?
Colposcopy is a technique used to examine the cervix and other organs in the pelvic region. During a colposcopy, a doctor will examine the cervix using a magnifying instrument called a colposcope. This procedure is performed with the cervix covered with a testing solution called a colposcopic dye. The dye will stain the cells and make them easier to visualize. The colposcopic dye helps to check any more pronounced abnormalities, such as lesions. A colposcopy may be performed at the same time as a Pap.What is a Pap test?
A Pap test checks for cell changes that may turn into cervical cancer. A colposcopy is performed simultaneously with a Pap test to look for changes on the cervix that can’t be seen with the naked eye.What causes HPV?
HPV is a virus genus that affects both men and women equally. The virus usually causes no symptoms, and most people are unaware they have it. A person can have HPV for years and not know it. HPV can induce alterations in the cervix's cells, vulva, vagina, anus, and other body areas. These changes can lead to cancer over time. The types of HPV that cause warts on the hands and feet or rough spots on the lips differ from those of HPV that cause abnormal cell changes in the cervix. Not all types of HPV cause changes in cells. Many patients infected with the virus are unaware that they are infected, and their bodies fight off the infection. Some types of HPV are more likely to cause cancer than others. HPV 16 and HPV 18 are the two types most likely to cause cancer. HPV can cause cervical cancer in two ways: precancerous lesions and cervical cancer.
What is the purpose of a colposcopy?
A colposcopy is used to see the cervix and other areas of the pelvic region with a colposcope. It is a diagnostic procedure used to investigate abnormalities of the cervix and vulva. During a Pap test, the cervix and other parts of the pelvic area may seem abnormal. Still, more testing is required to identify whether these changes are due to cell abnormalities or irregularities on the mucosal surface. A colposcopy allows a doctor to examine the cervix and other areas of the pelvic region at a much higher magnification than a Pap test. Allows for better identification of abnormal cells and their locations. The colposcopy is also used to identify any microabrasions that may have occurred during a Pap test. During a Pap test, the cervix is either scraped or a small brush is used to collect cells. This can cause microabrasions on the cervix. Identifying them helps determine the best follow-up treatment.What to expect during the colposcopy appointment
Before the colposcopy begins, the woman may be asked to change into a gown and empty her bladder. The woman will most likely be asked to lie on her back with her hips elevated and her knees slightly open. The doctor may apply a unique solution known as an acetic acid solution to help image any abnormal areas. This solution is applied to the cervix using a cotton swab. The answer may sting or burn. It may temporarily turn the room a shade of white or yellowish-white. A colposcopy is a unique magnifying instrument that uses light. The doctor will use it to look at the cervix and other areas of the pelvic region. The woman may be asked to cough or bear down to better view the cervix. The doctor may take a sample of cells from the cervix. This sample is sent to a laboratory for testing.How to prepare for a colposcopy
Women should do their best to stay hydrated and eat healthy before a colposcopy. This can make the procedure less uncomfortable and speed up the healing process. Before the colposcopy, women should take a warm bath or use a warm heating pad to help relax the pelvic area. Some women find it helpful to reduce discomfort by taking a mild pain reliever or anti-inflammatory medicine before the colposcopy. Cleaning the vulva and surrounding area is recommended before the colposcopy. Wiping the area with warm water and a mild soap should suffice. It’s also a good idea to avoid wearing deodorant or scented hygiene products, especially if the skin is broken. Pregnant women should consult with their doctor about when to get a colposcopy.How to interpret results from a colposcopy
The results of a colposcopy may be reported as positive or negative. The doctor may recommend a repeat colposcopy in a few years if they are negative. This is an excellent time to ask about HPV vaccination. Suppose the results are positive (i.e., abnormal cells identified). In that case, the doctor may recommend the following.Follow-up treatments:
A follow-up colposcopy: If the abnormal cells were located on the cervix's surface or walls, the doctor might perform a follow-up colposcopy to investigate the findings further. If the abnormal cells were inside the cervix, the doctor might perform a cone or LLETZ biopsy. A cone biopsy: During this procedure, the doctor uses a small scalpel to remove the abnormal areas on the cervix. This minor procedure can be performed in the doctor’s office. The doctor may use a local anesthetic or prescribe pain medication to ease discomfort. LLETZ biopsy: During this procedure, the doctor uses a narrow wire loop to remove the abnormal areas on the cervix. The coil is heated to destroy the cells. This procedure is also performed in the doctor’s office and can be done with local anesthesia.Possible follow-up treatments for abnormal colposcopy results
If the colposcopy reveals abnormal cells, the doctor may recommend a follow-up treatment to remove the cells. Women who have had a colposcopy and have a positive result should consult their doctor to explain the findings and discuss the next steps toward a healthy cervix. Women with an abnormal Pap test or who have had a colposcopy and are found to have abnormal cells may be prescribed a short course of antibiotics. This reduces the risk of infection, which can cause the abnormal cells to multiply and spread. Women with positive colposcopy results may be prescribed a short course of HPV medications.What to do after a colposcopy
After a colposcopy, the tissue may look inflamed or bruised. The patient should keep the area clean with warm water and use a pad to catch any discharge. If the doctor performs a biopsy, the woman may experience pain and discomfort in the pelvic region. Taking over-the-counter pain medicines as prescribed can help manage discomfort. taking lots of rest and drinking plenty of water is essential for the body's recovery. Some spotting or bleeding might occur if the biopsy is performed on the cervix. This is common and will vanish in a few days or a week. It’s essential to keep the area clean and avoid sexual activity until the bleeding subsides.Colposcopy risks
While many women have a colposcopy with no complications, there is always a small risk of infection, bleeding, or injury to the urethra, bladder, or other nearby organs. In addition, the disease risk is higher when an acetic acid solution is used.nGyn Cervical Screening System:
The nGyn colposcope assists in obtaining accurate cervical diagnoses. Its prescribed workflow reduces subjectivity and variability in colposcopies. AI-powered diagnostics act as guidelines for decision-making, enhancing the accuracy of the procedure.References:
- Cooper DB, Dunton CJ. Colposcopy. In: StatPearls [Internet]. Treasure Island (FL): StatPearls Publishing; 2023 [cited 2023 Oct 10]. Available from: http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK564514/
- Hospitals M. Best Hospitals in India | Medicover Hospitals. [cited 2023 Oct 10]. Colposcopy: a comprehensive guide for understanding. Available from: https://www.medicoverhospitals.in/articles/everything-you-need-to-know-about-a-colposcopy
- Burness JV, Schroeder JM, Warren JB. Cervical colposcopy: indications and risk assessment. Am Fam Physician. 2020 Jul 1;102(1):39–48.