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Common Gynecological Problems & ProceduresAbnormal pap smear and colposcopy
Frequently after an abnormal pap smear, your health care provider may ask you to come into the office for a repeat pap smear and sometimes they use an instrument called a colposcope that allows a closer examination of the cervix for any abnormalities. A colposcopy has a series of lenses that magnify the tissues in the cervix.
The procedure Initially, a colposcopy feels similar to a Pap smear. However, instead of taking a sample of the cervical cells, your health care provider will place the colposcope at the vaginal opening. If your cervical tissue appears abnormal, your health care provider may use an instrument to cut off a small tissue sample. This is called a biopsy. You may feel a slight pinch or cramp. The tissue will be sent to a lab for analysis. Sometimes, manipulation of the cervix makes you may feel a little lightheaded afterwards, but many women feel no after effects. If a biopsy is performed there might be some minor bleeding from the biopsy site. Infection could occur, but is rare. Please consult with your health care provider to see how these risks apply to you. After the procedure, you should call your doctor immediately if you experience heavy bleeding, a fever, or pelvic pain. Consult with your doctor about what steps you should take and when you need to return for a checkup. How is this procedure helpful? Your doctor should be able to make a more specific diagnosis of the problem in your cervix and suggest further treatment if necessary.
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