What is colposcopy?

Colposcopy is the method used to examine the cervix. It is used to evaluate the cervix and to detect the diseases that occur. There is a light at the tip of the colposcope instruments and the cervix is visualized with the help of the light. In addition, the magnification capacity of these devices is quite good. It shows magnification up to 6 or 40 times. Since it is a clinical procedure, it does not hurt much. It is generally used for augmentation during visual examination of the vagina. If there is suspicion of disease after the examination, a colposcopic biopsy may be requested. 

How is colposcopy performed?

 This procedure is performed by specialist doctors in a clinical setting. The patient lies on his back with his feet open. In order to see the uterus more easily, an apparatus is attached to the cervix and this apparatus expands the cervix. This apparatus is called speculum. The cervix area is washed with special solutions.The device called colposcope is prepared and placed in front of the vagina, but in no way is it inserted into the vagina. The tissues in the vagina are enlarged and an image is obtained. If no problematic lesion is detected, the procedure is terminated. However, if a different lesion is detected, colposcopic biopsy is performed. 

Who is Colposcopy Applied to?

 Colposcopy especially helps to detect cervical cancer (cervical cancer) without clinical symptoms at an early stage. Colposcopy is applied for the evaluation of the cervix, especially in patients with abnormal cytological results and smear test or HPV 16 or 18 positive in the HPV test.“Why is a colposcopy done?” , “What are the indications for colposcopy” or “When should a colposcopy be done?” The answers to the questions include:In the diagnosis of cervical cancer,In the evaluation of suspicious lesions in the vulva,Colposcopy can be applied for the diagnosis of visible precancerous changes in the vulva, which is the external genital shadow of the woman.

Colposcopy can be used to evaluate long-standing itching of the vulva. Diagnosis of changes in the cervical tissue that are not precancerous yet cancerous but may develop cancerColposcopy can be performed in the diagnosis of precancerous changes in the vaginal tissue, that is, there is no cancer yet, but cancer may develop. In addition, colposcopy can be performed in the following cases:Colposcopy can also be performed during pregnancy. Infertility, i.e. situations where the cause of infertility should be revealedColposcopy can be done before any surgery on the cervix. 

How Long Does the Colposcopy Procedure Take?

The duration of the colposcopy procedure may vary depending on whether or not colposcopic biopsy will be performed. Generally, the process takes between 5 and 15 minutes.

 Is Colposcopy Done While Pregnant?

 Expectant mothers “Can colposcopy be done while pregnant?” is wondering the answer to the question. Colposcopy is a safe procedure and can be done while pregnant. However, care should be taken in cases where colposcopic biopsy is required. Colposcopy with pregnancy should be performed by specialist doctors. 

While low-grade lesions can be evaluated with biopsy in non-pregnant women, biopsy is performed for lesions that are suspicious for cancer in pregnant women. Evaluation of lesions that are not suspected of cancer is left after delivery. The scraping of the uterine canal, which is applied to non-pregnant patients, is not applied to pregnant women. 

Is Colposcopy Anesthesia Performed? 

Colposcopy is usually performed without anesthesia. Local anesthesia can be used in cases where colposcopic biopsy is performed in the lower part of the vagina and vulva. 

What Should Be Considered After Colposcopy?

If a biopsy has not been performed after the colposcopy procedure, there is no need for any restriction in daily activities. You may experience very light bleeding or discharge within a few days. After colposcopic biopsyThere is no harm in taking a shower and bath. Sexual intercourse should be avoided for a while. The drugs used can be continued by asking the doctor. 

Is there a delay in menstruation after colposcopy? 

Although rare, some patients may have menstrual delay after colposcopy. Sexual Intercourse After Colposcopy There is no need to interrupt sexual intercourse after colposcopy. However, if colposcopic biopsy was performed, sexual intercourse should be avoided for 2-3 days.