Purpose of Colposcopy :

Colposcopy is a medical procedure used to closely examine the cervix, vagina, and vulva for signs of disease. Colposcopy helps in early detection and appropriate treatment of cervical issues.

1. The primary purposes of a colposcopy include :
   • Further investigation of abnormal pap smear results : If a Pap test shows abnormal cells or changes, a colposcopy helps to evaluate the extent and cause.
   • Examine abnormal areas : It allows the healthcare provider to closely observe areas of the cervix or vaginal tissues that may look abnormal, identifying precancerous or cancerous cells.
   • Diagnosing cervical dysplasia or cancer : The procedure can help detect cervical intraepithelial neoplasia (CIN) or cervical cancer at an early stage.
   • Take biopsies : During a colposcopy, the healthcare provider may take a biopsy (a small tissue sample) from abnormal areas for further analysis in the lab.
   • Follow-up for known cervical issues : It can be used to monitor known conditions of the cervix,such as HPV infections or precancerous lesions.



Procedure of Colposcopy :

Colposcopy is a procedure used to examine the cervix, vagina, and vulva for signs of disease, usually after an abnormal Pap smear.

• Medical History: The doctor reviews your medical history, particularly any previous abnormal Pap smear results. You’ll be asked to sign a consent form acknowledging that you understand the procedure. You’ll lie on your back on an examination table, with your legs in stirrups, similar to a Pap smear exam.
• Speculum Insertion: The doctor inserts a speculum into your vagina to keep it open and allow visibility of the cervix.
• Colposcope Placement: A colposcope (a magnifying instrument with a light) is placed just outside the vagina to get a magnified view of the cervix and surrounding tissues. The colposcope doesn’t touch you.
• Application of Acetic Acid Solution: The doctor applies a solution of acetic acid (vinegar) to the cervix. This helps highlight abnormal areas by turning them white. Sometimes, an iodine solution (Schiller test) is used to further assist in identifying abnormal tissues.
• Examination: The doctor inspects the cervix under the magnified view, looking for abnormal patterns, blood vessels, or tissue discoloration that might indicate precancerous or cancerous changes.
• Biopsy (if needed): If any suspicious areas are found, a biopsy (small tissue sample) may be taken. You might feel some cramping or discomfort during the biopsy, but it is generally brief.
  
  There are different types of biopsies:
  
  • Cervical Biopsy: A small piece of cervical tissue is taken for analysis.
  • Endocervical Curettage: A small scraping from the cervical canal (endocervix) is collected.
• End of Procedure: After the examination and biopsy (if performed), the speculum is removed.The procedure generally lasts 10–20 minutes.













Care to take after Colposcopy:

• You may experience mild cramping or discomfort, similar to menstrual cramps, for a few hours or up to a day after the biopsy.
• You might notice a brownish or black vaginal discharge if a solution was applied to the cervix to stop bleeding. This is normal and should clear within a few days.
• If a biopsy was done, avoid inserting anything into the vagina (tampons, douching, intercourse) for a few days to allow healing.
• Avoid douching, Refrain from intercourse to prevent infection and Avoid strenuous activities for a few days.
• Results from the biopsy typically take a week or two.

Follow-up : Depending on the results of the colposcopy and biopsy, follow-up may include further tests, treatment, or a repeat colposcopy.




When to Call Your Doctor:

Colposcopy is a safe procedure, but risks may include infection or bleeding, especially if a biopsy is taken. But you should call your Healthcare professional if you observe any of the following symptoms:

• Heavy bleeding (more than a regular period)
• Severe pain or cramping in your pelvis or lower belly.
• Fever or chills
• Symptoms of an infection, like a foul-smelling vaginal discharge that’s thicker than usual

Following your doctor's care instructions closely will help ensure proper healing.

Prognosis:

Colposcopy is a simple and painless procedure.Colposcopy can help medical professionals detect cancer or cancer cells early, so you can get the treatment you need. Cervical cancer is diagnosed and treated early and can be cured.

A colposcopy can also rule out cancer.Discuss your concerns about cancer and the results with your Healthcare professional as you prepare for the test day.