What is Colposcopy?
Colposcopy is a visual examination of the vagina and cervix, essential for detecting cervical cancer and other cervical lesions.
This procedure allows for a biopsy, meaning a small tissue sample is taken from the area where lesions have been detected. The sample is then sent to a laboratory to determine if there are any cellular abnormalities and whether treatment is necessary.
The instrument used in colposcopy is called a colposcope, which provides illumination and magnifies the image between 10 to 40 times, allowing for detailed observation of the vulva, vagina, and cervix and enabling targeted biopsies.
How is it Performed?
This is a medical procedure that should only be performed by a specialist doctor. The examination is painless, causing no pain—only mild, temporary discomfort. It takes approximately 10 to 20 minutes to complete. Besides examining the cervix, it is also important to assess the vagina and vulva using the colposcope.
During the procedure, a vaginal speculum is inserted to separate the vaginal walls. The colposcope remains about 30 centimeters away from the vagina and does not come into contact with the patient. Various magnification lenses and color filters are used to assess the examined area. The doctor will apply an iodine-based solution to the cervix and vagina to identify abnormal areas. Therefore, it is important to check for any iodine allergies beforehand.
If suspicious areas are identified, one or more biopsies may be necessary for further examination. During the biopsy, a very small tissue sample is collected and sent to the laboratory for analysis.
Preparation for Colposcopy
Before undergoing a colposcopy, women should follow these precautions:
- If there is vaginal discharge or inflammation of the cervix (cervicitis), these should be treated before the examination, as they may cause additional discomfort and affect the results.
- At least 48 hours before the exam, avoid sexual intercourse, vaginal medications, the application of topical creams, or vaginal douching.
- Ideally, the exam should not be scheduled during menstruation. The use of a vaginal ring or an intrauterine device (IUD) does not prevent the procedure. As gynecologist Alexia Toller explains, “The vaginal ring does not interfere with the procedure and can be removed during the examination. As for the IUD, the exam can be performed without any interference.”
Risks and Recovery Care
Acetic acid and Lugol’s solution may cause irritation and discomfort. If a biopsy is performed, it is important to avoid sexual intercourse, the application of medications or creams, and vaginal douching for 48 to 72 hours.
Contraindications for Colposcopy
- Colposcopy should not be performed if there is an infection or inflammation (cervicitis), as the results of the examination may be affected.
- The application of Lugol’s solution is contraindicated in women with an iodine allergy.
- Curettage of the vaginal canal cannot be performed during pregnancy.
- If the patient is taking anticoagulant medication, a biopsy should only be performed in a controlled environment (a facility with transfusion capabilities) due to the high risk of significant bleeding.
When is Colposcopy Recommended?
Colposcopy should be performed whenever abnormalities are detected in a cytology test, a simpler examination that involves collecting cells from the outer surface of the cervix and the endocervical canal using a specific instrument (spatula or brush). These cells are then spread onto a glass slide, fixed, or placed in a liquid medium and sent to a laboratory for analysis.
As a magnified examination of the cervix and lower genital tract, colposcopy allows for the identification of dysplastic or neoplastic lesions and helps determine their location, size, and extent. Additionally, it enables biopsy collection and assists in selecting the most appropriate treatment.
Colposcopy is recommended whenever cytology results indicate abnormalities, when visible or palpable cervical lesions are present, in cases of post-coital bleeding (bleeding during intercourse), unexplained vaginal discharge, unexplained bleeding, a history of cervical, vaginal, or vulvar cancer, and for post-treatment monitoring.
Price of Colposcopy
Request the price here.
Where to do it?
Colposcopy can be performed at X-Clinic (Av. Eng. Duarte Pacheco, nº26 – Intermediate Floor, 1070-110 Lisbon).
