Colposcopy

Colposcopy is a way for your doctor to use a special magnifying device to look at your vulva, vagina, and cervix. If a problem is seen during colposcopy, a small sample of tissue (biopsy) may be taken from the cervix or from inside the opening of the cervix (endocervical canal). The sample is looked at under a microscope.

Colposcopy is usually done to look at the vagina and cervix when the result of a Pap test is abnormal. Many abnormal Pap tests are caused by viral infections, such as human papillomavirus (HPV) infection, or other types of infection, such as those caused by bacteria, fungi (yeast), or protozoa (Trichomonas). Natural cervical cell changes (atrophic vaginitis) related to menopause can also cause an abnormal Pap test. In some cases, untreated cervical cell changes that cause abnormal Pap tests may progress to precancerous or cancerous changes.

During colposcopy, your doctor uses a lighted magnifying device that looks like a pair of binoculars (colposcope). The colposcope allows your doctor to see problems that would be missed by the naked eye. A camera can be attached to the colposcope to take pictures or videos of the vagina and cervix.

Visit www.acog.org for more information.

Return to the top of page

Annual Exams

Breast Exams

Oral Contraception

Vaginal Contraception

Birth Control Patch

DepoProvera

Implanon

Oral Progesterone

Mirena

Paragard

Tubal Ligation

Laparoscopy

Colposcopy

Hysteroscopy

Endometrial Ablation

LEEP

D&C's

Urinary Incontinence

Prolapse Repair

Human Papillomavirus (HPV)

GARDASIL

Endometriosis

Heavy Periods

Menopause Care

Menstrual Cramping

Ovarian Cysts

Painful Intercourse

Pelvic Pain

Ultrasound

Uterine Bleeding

Back to Top of Page