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 Colposcopy-directed biopsyHow the Test is Performed:As in a regular pelvic examination, you will be asked to lie on your back with your feet in the stirrups. A speculum (an instrument used to hold open the birth canal in order to view and examine the cervix ) will be inserted into your vagina and opened slightly. The cervix is then swabbed with a chemical solution (acetic acid) to remove the mucus that covers the surface and help highlight abnormal areas. The colposcope is then positioned at the opening of the vagina and the area is thoroughly examined. Photographs may be taken. Any abnormal areas will have a small sample of the tissue removed ( biopsy ) using small biopsy forceps. Many samples may be taken, depending on the size of the area. How to Prepare: There is no special preparation. The procedure may be more comfortable if you empty your bladder and bowel beforehand. You should not douche or have sexual intercourse for 24-hours before the exam. How it Feels: A colposcopy is painless. The biopsy may feel like a pinch each time a tissue sample is taken and may have some cramping with it. Any pain or cramping occurring during the biopsy may be helped by relaxing and taking a few slow deep breaths. Some cramping may occur after the biopsy. Many women have a tendency to hold their breath during pelvic procedures in anticipation of pain. Making an effort to concentrate on slow regular breathing will help you relax and will reduce or eliminate some pain. Risks: After the biopsy there may be some bleeding for up to a week. Avoid sexual intercourse, douching, and using tampons for 1 week to allow the biopsy area to heal. If bleeding is unusually heavy or lasts for longer than 1 week, or if you notice any signs of infection (fever, foul odor or discharge), your health care provider should be contacted. Why this Test is Performed: This is usually performed after a positive pap smear to help identify the abnormality. Normal Values: A smooth, pink surface of the cervix is normal. A biopsy is only performed when abnormal tissues are seen or suspected because of abnormal pap smear results. Abnormal Results: Abnormalities detected include cervical warts ( human papilloma virus ), precancerous tissue changes, cervical intraepithelial neoplasia (tumor) , or invasive carcinoma ( cancer ). The colposcopy may be used to keep track of precancerous abnormalities and look for recurrent abnormalities after treatment. Abnormal findings during a colposcopy include abnormal patterns in the blood vessels, whitish patches on the cervix , and areas that are inflamed, eroded, or atrophic (tissue wasting away). Any of these abnormalities may indicate cancerous changes. Additional conditions under which the test may be performed:
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