Colposcopy for abnormal smear test results
Written in association with:
Obstetrician - gynaecologist
Published: 31/07/2019
Edited by: Laura Burgess
Colposcopy is an examination that allows the cervix to be looked at under high magnification to detect any abnormal areas. This is usually done because a woman has had an abnormal cervical smear test or screening sample.
Here, top gynaecologist, Mr Jullien Brady explains everything you need to know about colposcopy, from how the procedure works, whether it’s painful and what happens if the results come back abnormal.
How does the procedure work?
There have been some recent significant improvements to the procedure by the introduction of the DYSIS colposcopy system. As well as the examination by the doctor, this colposcopy system uses a digital spectroscope to analyse the cervix and highlight the most abnormal areas. This means that the doctor increases the identification of any disease that may be present and could be missed by traditional colposcopy.
It also allows for the monitoring of certain cervical conditions as doctors are now much more reluctant to remove cervical tissue in women who still wish to have children. This is because doing a treatment to remove some of the cervix can result in a small increased chance of premature delivery.
Does a colposcopy hurt?
A colposcopy examination should not be painful but does require the insertion of a speculum into the vagina. This is important as the whole cervix needs to be seen clearly. Being as relaxed as possible can help with any initial discomfort.
The examination requires a special liquid (a very dilute acidic solution) to be put onto the cervix. This can sometimes give a slight stingy sensation but is not normally painful.
What happens if a colposcopy is abnormal?
A colposcopy looks for many potential changes on the cervix that are broadly determined as low and high risk. In general, many low-risk examinations do not need treatment, but usually monitoring with repeat screening.
High-risk changes usually require treatment to the cervix to remove the abnormal area. If there is uncertainty as to the level of changes then small biopsies can be taken to aid in the diagnosis.
What is the next step?
As the cervix only has a very rudimentary nerve supply, biopsies can be taken without any anaesthetic needed. The small amount of bleeding is most commonly stopped with silver nitrate. Treatments are usually done under local anaesthetic that is introduced on either side of the cervix. They are normally very well tolerated and is a short procedure, but can be done under general anaesthetic if required.
Do not hesitate to book an appointment with Mr Jullien Brady to discuss abnormal smear test results.