Sometimes abnormal cells may develop in a woman’s cervix, which may not be necessarily cancerous. If your specialist sees such cells during a routine screening, they may recommend Miami advanced colposcopy. It is a procedure used to examine the cervix for signs of any disease. Most women get scared whenever a doctor recommends a colposcopy due to fear of having cancer. However, you may at times have abnormal cells which may not be cancerous. But if the cells carry the risk of cervical cancer, treatment can help prevent the possibility of developing the disease.
When would I need a colposcopy?
Your doctor may recommend the diagnosis after your routine pap smear test or due to other reasons that include:
- Lack of results from multiple screening tests.
- Presence of abnormal cells in your vagina.
- You have tested positive for human papillomavirus, which may cause cervical cancer.
- You have unexplained vaginal bleeding.
How to prepare for a colposcopy
A consultation with your specialist before scheduling for colposcopy will help you understand the do’s and don’ts of the procedure. For example, your doctor may ask you to:
- Avoid sexual intercourse at least a day or two before your appointment.
- Do not use your tampons and avoid activities like douching before the diagnosis.
- Do not schedule for your diagnosis while on your periods.
- Take non-steroidal anti-inflammatory medications like ibuprofen before your colposcopy appointment.
Although it is normal to feel anxious before the procedure, you may need to find ways to manage your emotions to avoid feeling uncomfortable during the process. The good news is there are several things to help you deal with anxiety. For example:
- Ask your doctor about the process to have an insight into what it entails.
- Note your concerns about colposcopy and discuss them with your specialist to eliminate all your uncertainties.
- Consider activities such as meditation, journaling, and exercise that may help you relax.
What to expect during a colposcopy
You may need to change into a hospital gown so that your doctor can quickly gain access to your cervix. Next, you lie on a flat surface and place your feet on supports. Using a metal speculum, the doctor keeps the vagina walls open so that the cervix is seen. The colposcope is situated some inches away from the vagina, and the doctor uses a bright light for easy visibility. The colposcope acts like a microscope and enlarges the cells in the cervix, making it easier for the doctor to identify abnormal ones. If there are any abnormal tissues, you may need a biopsy for a detailed or closer examination. As the doctor removes a sample of your tissue, you may feel a sudden scratch or pinch, which should not be very painful. The average time for this diagnosis is 5 minutes, but it may take longer if treatment is included. It may cause slight discomfort for some women, but let your doctor know if it is too painful.
A colposcopy enables accurate identification or diagnosis of any cervical abnormality. It can also help prevent cervical cancer by facilitating early treatment. For further inquiries about colposcopy, consult with your doctor today at Peter A Khamvongsa, FACOG, FACS.
