Admin_NHT Staff asked 6 years ago Colposcopy is a procedure performed on women wherein the doctor inspects the vagina, cervix, and vulva for any signs of infection or outgrowths. The doctor uses an instrument called colposcope for this and it, like any other scope, is a tube with a camera attached to one of its ends along with provisions to attach other instruments like those required for performing biopsies. A doctor might recommend a colposcopy if the patient shows signs of genital warts, inflammation of the cervix, or any pre-cancerous changes in the genital region.
A doctor should be immediately consulted if you experience heavy bleeding when you are not on your period, severe abdominal cramping, fever, and chills. The procedure usually takes about 10 to 20 minutes and is out-patient in nature. It is advised to refrain from participating in intercourse for a couple of days prior to the exam, also the exam should not be performed when one is on their period. There are certain risks associated like heavy bleeding, pelvic pain, or chances of an infection. Since the scope is inserted into one’s cervix, you may feel anxious and uncomfortable, so it is advised to be relaxed and have someone to talk to or listen to music if the doctor permits. Being uncomfortable in such a position will not only be problematic for the doctor to diagnose but also increases the chances of the patient getting hurt. If a biopsy is done, you may experience pelvic pain for a couple of days and would also notice a dark red discharge from your vagina. Post-colposcopy, it is advised to refrain from using tampons, douching, and having intercourse for a period of one week.