Colposcopy

A colposcopy is a simple procedure that lets your doctor get a good look at your cervix. The exam takes 5 to 10 minutes and is a lot like getting a Pap smear. One of the biggest differences is your doctor uses a special magnifying instrument called a colposcope.

You usually get a colposcopy if you had some sort of abnormal results on your Pap test so your doctor can further diagnose any problems.

• Your Pap results were abnormal.
• Your cervix looks abnormal during a pelvic exam.
• Tests show you have the human papillomavirus, or HPV.
• You have unexplained bleeding or other problems.

Your doctor can use a colposcopy to diagnose cervical cancer, genital warts, vaginal cancer, and vulvar cancer, as well. Once your doctor gets the results from your colposcopy, they’ll know whether or not you need further tests.