Colposcopy is one of the most effective cervical examination methods recommended for all women of reproductive age. Regular colposcopic examination allows detecting cervical and vaginal pathologies at an early stage, starting timely treatment and achieving more successful treatment results.
Colposcopy – the gold standard for early diagnosis of cervical pathologies
Colposcopy is an uncomplicated and simple examination method that allows diagnosing cervical and vaginal pathologies in their early stages, when changes are not yet visible during a regular gynecological examination and when the patient does not feel any symptoms. “Northway” clinic specialists emphasize that early diagnosis is one of the most important conditions in the treatment of gynecological diseases. For example, thanks to timely diagnosis, cervical cancer can be successfully cured in approximately 90% of cases.
Colposcopy makes it possible to diagnose:
- inflammatory processes, such as vulvitis (inflammation of the external genitalia), vaginitis (inflammation of the vagina), endocervicitis (inflammation of the cervical mucosa), etc. c.,
- signs of a precancerous condition (cervical dysplasia),
- benign neoplasms (polyps, condylomas, endometrioid cysts, etc.),
- malignant changes, such as the development of cervical cancer.
Aksana Evart
Gynecologic oncologist, Colposcopy specialist
Frequently Asked Questions
Colposcopy proceeds similarly to a regular gynecological examination. It is a painless, only slightly unpleasant examination in some cases. During the colposcopic examination, the colposcope – a binocular microscope – is placed 20 to 30 centimeters away from the patient. The colposcope is not inserted into the vagina and does not touch the body. Before the colposcopic examination, the cervix is treated with a special liquid that helps to better see the blood vessels and see cell changes in the cervix. During the examination, the doctor inserts and fixes a special mirror into the vagina. Next, with a colposcope equipped with powerful lighting, the cervix is examined in maximum detail – up to 40 times zoomed in – and high-resolution images are taken. The examination lasts about 10 minutes. To confirm or reject the diagnosis, a biopsy is performed during colposcopy, taking tissue samples for laboratory examination.
According to the recommendations of the World Health Organization, it is recommended to perform a colposcopy at least once a year for women of reproductive age to prevent gynecological diseases. Also, colposcopy is used to monitor the results during treatment of gynecological diseases, as well as in preparation for pregnancy and when expecting a baby.
- When planning a pregnancy;
- During pregnancy;
- Observed abnormal discharge from the vagina;
- Suffering from pulling pains in the lower abdomen;
- There is a burning sensation during urination;
- There is pain and discomfort during intercourse;
- Found deviations from the norm in cytology results;
- In case of menstrual cycle disorders;
- If bleeding is observed between periods;
- For control of results in the treatment of gynecological diseases;
- At menopause.
Colposcopy does not require special preparation, however, there are some recommendations that must be followed for the most effective examination.
- At least 24 hours before the examination, it is recommended to refrain from sexual intercourse;
- It is not recommended to use tampons, lubricants and medicines;
- If there is heavy menstruation on the day of colposcopy, it is better to postpone the examination.
After the colposcopy, the patient can return to the usual daily rhythm almost immediately. A few restrictions must be observed – it is recommended to refrain from bathing, visiting the swimming pool and sauna, as well as sexual intercourse and using tampons for at least two or three days. It should be expected that after the colposcopy, there may be small bloody discharge from the vagina for a couple of days; there is also a slight discomfort in the area of the pelvic organs. If the discomfort lasts (in very rare cases), it is recommended to consult a doctor.