Can a gynecologist do a colposcopy?
A colposcopy is a type of women’s health exam. It’s often performed by your family doctor or a gynecologist. He or she uses a tool called a colposcope. It shines a light on the cervix and magnifies the view.
What is a Gynaecology colposcopy?
Colposcopy (kol-POS-kuh-pee) is a procedure to closely examine your cervix, vagina and vulva for signs of disease. During colposcopy, your doctor uses a special instrument called a colposcope. Your doctor may recommend colposcopy if your Pap test result is abnormal.
What is the procedure for colposcopy?
You’ll lie down on an exam table like you would for a pelvic exam. The doctor or nurse will put a speculum into your vagina and open it. This separates the walls of your vagina so they can get a really good look at your cervix. They’ll wash your cervix with a vinegar-like solution.
Why does my Obgyn want to do a colposcopy?
A colposcopy is used to find cancerous cells or abnormal cells that can become cancerous in the cervix, vagina, or vulva. These abnormal cells are sometimes called “precancerous tissue.” A colposcopy also looks for other health conditions, such as genital warts or noncancerous growths called polyps.
How long do colposcopy results take?
It may take 4 to 8 weeks to get colposcopy results. Your colposcopist usually sends a letter with your results. If your results take longer than this, you can call the hospital or your colposcopist to check on them.
What is the difference between a Pap smear and a colposcopy?
A colposcopy is a test that is typically performed after an abnormal Pap. The two tests are similar in nature, however, the biggest difference is that a colposcopy also uses a magnifying instrument to help the physician get a closer look.
How long is recovery from colposcopy?
Following the procedure, a person should feel fine as soon as it is over. Light spotting or cramping may occur, but people can continue with their daily activities and do not need to avoid vaginal sex. However, if the doctor performed a biopsy, it can take 1–2 days to recover.
How long does a colposcopy procedure take?
A colposcopy is usually carried out in a hospital clinic. It takes around 15 to 20 minutes and you can go home soon afterwards.
Do they put you to sleep for a colposcopy?
You can go home the same day. A cone biopsy is usually done under general anaesthetic (where you’re asleep) and you may need to stay in hospital overnight. Read more about colposcopy treatments.