Colposcopy test: Don't be afraid, let's get to the bottom of this!

When your doctor told you that you needed to have a colposcopy, you were a little scared, weren't you? "What is this test? Will it hurt? What will happen?" You probably thought to yourself. But there's really no reason to be scared. This is a simple test that most women are asked to do, and it usually takes about 10-20 minutes. In this article, we'll talk about it clearly and simply.

Simply put, what is colposcopy?

Colposcopy is a procedure that checks your cervix, vagina, and vulva for any abnormal tissue.

For this, the doctor uses a special instrument called a colposcope. Think of it as a special microscope with a good light and a magnifying glass. When you look through it, you can see the cells in that area very clearly and magnified.

If the doctor sees something unusual or different, they take a very small piece of tissue for testing . This is called a biopsy . The tissue is then sent to a lab to be examined to see if there is anything wrong with it.

This test is mainly done to find out if there are precancerous cells that may turn into cancer in the future. We medically call this condition cervical dysplasia . In addition, this test also helps to find things like genital warts and small growths that form on the cervix (cervical polyps).

Why are you being asked to take this test?

Your doctor may recommend this test for one or more of the following reasons:

• If the results of your Pap smear are abnormal .
• If your doctor finds anything unusual during a routine pelvic exam of your vagina.
• If your HPV test is positive .
• If you have abnormal bleeding during your period or persistent symptoms such as itching in the genital area (vulva).

How is this test done? What are the types of biopsy?

The doctor examines the cervix with a device called a colposcope, which is placed outside your vagina. It is not inserted inside. The light and magnifying lens on it allow you to see the cervix very clearly.

If the doctor suspects that there are any abnormal cells, he or she will decide to perform a biopsy. There are two main methods for this.

How should you prepare before the test?

Your doctor will give you the exact instructions you need before this test, but there are a few general things you should be aware of.

What happens during the test?

This is a test usually done in a clinic or hospital. Here's what happens:

1. You will be made to lie down on an examination table and asked to place your legs on stirrups.

2. The doctor will then insert a lubricated instrument called a speculum into your vagina. This will slightly dilate the vagina and allow the cervix to be clearly visible.

3. To reduce pain, the doctor may give you a local anesthetic or apply a lidocaine spray.

4. Now the doctor will carefully examine your cervix, vaginal walls, and external area with the colposcope.

5. Next, a cotton swab is applied to the cervix with a solution of acetic acid. At this point, you may feel a slight burning sensation . This solution will cause the areas with abnormal cells to turn white and become more visible.

6. If an abnormal area is seen, the doctor will take a small piece of tissue from there for a biopsy.

7. If necessary, a special medicine will be applied to stop bleeding from the biopsy site.

Does this really hurt?

This is a problem that many people have. To be honest, everyone experiences pain differently. So it's impossible to say exactly how much it will hurt you. But there are a few common situations where you might feel discomfort or pain:

• You may feel some pressure or discomfort when inserting the speculum or when it is left in place for a while.
• You may feel a slight burning sensation when rubbing the vinegar solution (acetic acid) .
• If a biopsy is taken , you may feel a pinching or cramping sensation in the lower abdomen. This is where most people feel the most pain.

Therefore, before the test, talk to your doctor about pain management. It will also be a great relief for you.

What to expect after the test? Are there any risks?

Colposcopy is a very safe, low-risk procedure. However, in rare cases, excessive bleeding or infection may occur. However, these can be treated.

Recovery time after the test

If you had a biopsy, it may take a few days for your cervix to heal. During this time, you may experience:

• There may be small drops of blood for a few days.
• There may be some vaginal pain for a few days.
• You may have a black or brown discharge (this is due to the medicine used to stop the bleeding, don't worry).

You can use sanitary pads during this time. To give your cervix time to heal, avoid using tampons and having sex for a few days. Ask your doctor how long you should stay away from them.

If you don't have a biopsy, you can go about your normal activities after the test. You may experience some bleeding for a day or two.

When will the results come out? What do they mean?

Biopsy results usually take two to ten days to come back. Ask your doctor about when you will get your results and how you can find out. Results can come in two main ways.

If the results are abnormal, what do you do next?

Your doctor will clearly explain to you what to do next based on the results. It depends on the type and severity of the abnormal cells.

• Mild cervical dysplasia may go away without treatment, so your doctor will likely ask you to repeat the Pap test at regular intervals .
• If more advanced precancerous cells are present, treatments such as cone biopsy , loop electrosurgical excision procedure (LEEP) , or laser surgery may be recommended.
• If you are diagnosed with cancer, a team of specialist doctors will come together to develop the most appropriate treatment plan for you.

You need to call the doctor immediately!

There are usually no major problems after the test. However, if you experience any of the following symptoms, you should contact your doctor immediately .

• If you experience unbearable pain in the lower abdomen or pelvis .
• If you experience heavy bleeding (if you bleed a lot more than your normal period).
• If you are showing signs of an infection (for example, a foul-smelling, thicker vaginal discharge than usual, fever, and chills).

It's normal to feel scared and anxious when you're told you need to have a colposcopy. But remember, this test is designed to find any problems in your body at an early stage, before they turn into cancer, and provide the necessary treatment . The sooner it's found, the more successful the treatment. So, be open about any questions or concerns you have about this with your doctor.

Colposcopy, Pap smear, HPV, biopsy, women's health, cervical dysplasia