When Is a Colposcopy Recommended?

If you received abnormal Pap test results, or tested positive for human papillomavirus (HPV), your provider may recommend a colposcopy. At the office of OB-GYN Alan B. Patterson, MD, in Coral Springs, Florida, our team uses colposcopy to examine patients and develop appropriate treatment plans to address a range of gynecological conditions. 

What is a colposcopy?

A colposcopy is an in-office procedure that allows Dr. Patterson to closely examine your cervix, vagina, and vulva using a special magnifying instrument called a colposcope. It’s used to detect pre-cancer or cancer. 

The colposcope doesn’t go inside your body. Instead, it stays outside while your provider looks through it to identify any areas of concern. If needed, a small tissue sample (biopsy) may be taken for further testing.

The goal is to determine whether abnormal cells are present, and whether they require prompt treatment or just watchful waiting (periodic monitoring).

When is a colposcopy recommended?

A colposcopy is typically recommended when Pap smear screening results suggest that a closer look is needed. This doesn’t mean something serious is wrong, it simply means more information is needed. Dr. Patterson may recommend a colposcopy if you:

• Have an abnormal Pap smear result
• Tested positive for high-risk human papillomavirus (HPV)
• Have a persistent HPV infection over time
• Experience unexplained bleeding, especially after intercourse
• Have visible changes to the cervix during a routine exam

In many cases, these findings are related to HPV, a common virus that most people are exposed to at some point.

What happens during a colposcopy?

Similar to a Pap test, Dr. Patterson starts a colposcopy procedure by inserting a speculum into your vagina. After administering a substance that makes abnormal tissue easier to see, he examines your cervix closely under a strong light and magnification. 

If Dr. Patterson notices anything unusual, he typically takes a sample from the cervix to check for abnormalities. The entire procedure usually takes about 10-20 minutes.

What to expect after your colposcopy

If no biopsy is taken, you can typically return to your normal routine right away. If you do have a  biopsy, you may have light spotting or mild cramping for a few days. Our team may recommend avoiding tampons, intercourse, or heavy exercise briefly to give your cervix time to heal.

Results from a biopsy usually come back within about a week and will guide any next steps, if needed.

Does an abnormal result mean cancer?

Most abnormal Pap results and colposcopy findings don’t mean cancer. In fact, many cervical cell changes are mild and either resolve on their own or can be easily treated before they ever become serious.

The purpose of colposcopy is early detection and prevention. The goal is to catch potentially harmful changes early, when they’re easier to manage. 

What can colposcopy results show?

Colposcopy and biopsy results can be normal or, in less commonly, indicate cancer. However, the majority of women will either have a low-grade or normal outcome. In this situation, our team would typically advise getting a Pap and HPV test again in a year. 

Personalized, attentive gynecological care 

Having a colposcopy is a proactive step toward protecting your reproductive health. At the practice of Alan B. Patterson, MD, you’ll receive attentive, one-on-one care focused on making sure you understand what to expect. 

If you’ve been told you need a colposcopy or have questions about your results, call our office in Coral Springs, Florida, and schedule an appointment to get the answers and care you need.