What is a colposcopy?
A colposcopy helps our gynaecologists have a closer look at the cervix. It only takes 10-20 minutes.
During the colposcopy, a speculum is inserted into the vagina to hold it open, allowing a doctor to see the cervix. A colposcope is placed a few inches away from the vulva, which acts as a microscope to take a clear look of the cervix in great detail. If necessary a small amount of cells will be taken during the procedure, known as a punch biopsy.
What does it look for?
A colposcopy is done when abnormal cells are found in the cervix from a smear test, which is caused by the Human Papillomavirus (HPV). Although the HPV cells are not cancerous, there is the possibility that they could turn into cervical cancer in the future. It is very rare for a colposcopy to find cervical cancer.