Colposcopy
A colposcopy is a minor procedure that uses a special microscope to examine the surface of your cervix, vagina and vulva.
A colposcopy may be recommended if you have an abnormal cervical screening test result.
During a colposcopy, a small amount of tissue might be removed and sent to a laboratory for testing — this is a biopsy.
A colposcopy can be uncomfortable but isn’t usually painful unless you have a biopsy.
After a biopsy, you may have some cramping or spotting for a few days.
On this page What is a colposcopy?A colposcopy allows your doctor to examine your vulva, vagina and cervix very closely.
The doctor uses a colposcope, which looks like a pair of binoculars, with a bright light. It gives your doctor a magnified view of the surface of your vulva, vagina and cervix.
When is a colposcopy used?A colposcopy is usually done to assess the health of your lower reproductive tract. It can check for abnormal cells or growths in your:
cervix (the neck of the womb)
vagina
vulva
You might need a colposcopy if you have:
The procedure can help diagnose conditions such as:
Is a colposcopy safe?A colposcopy is a safe procedure. There is a small risk of complications, such as infection or heavy bleeding, in some cases.
After having a colposcopy, you should contact your doctor if you have:
You can ask your gynaecologist to explain the benefits and risks of a colposcopy.
Can I have a colposcopy if I am pregnant?Colposcopy can be safely performed during pregnancy if it is needed. If you have a high chance of getting cervical cancer, you may need an urgent colposcopy during pregnancy. In some cases, you may be able to postpone the procedure until after your baby is born.
Pregnancy can cause changes to your cervix, which can make colposcopy more challenging. So, it should be performed by a doctor with a lot of experience. Your referring doctor will help you find the right person to do your colposcopy.
Your doctor can discuss the benefits and disadvantages of a colposcopy with or without a biopsy in your situation.
ASK YOUR DOCTOR — Preparing for an appointment? Use the Question Builder for general tips on what to ask your GP or specialist.
How do I prepare myself for a colposcopy?If you are pregnant, let your doctor know before your colposcopy. The procedure is usually done when you are not menstruating. For 24 to 48 hours beforehand, you should also not:
have sex
use tampons
use vaginal medicines
douche
Your doctor may suggest that you use vaginal oestrogen cream in the weeks before your colposcopy.
Some people experience abdominal cramping after the procedure. You might like to take a pain-relieving medicine, such as paracetamol, about an hour before the procedure.
What happens during a colposcopy?A colposcopy takes about 20 minutes. It can feel uncomfortable and you may feel some pain like a period cramp.
It will most likely be done in your gynaecologist's rooms or a sexual health clinic. Colposcopies do not usually need an anaesthetic. A local anaesthetic may be used if you need a biopsy.
For a colposcopy, you will be asked to lie on your back. Your legs might be raised and supported in stirrups.
Your gynaecologist will insert a speculum, an instrument that opens the vagina so the doctor can see your cervix. Then they will dab the area with a mild vinegar solution, which may sting a little. Your doctor may also apply iodine, which is a brown dye. This can help identify any unhealthy cells.
Your gynaecologist will place the colposcope just outside the entrance to your vagina. They will look through the colposcope to look for any areas that are abnormal.
If an area needs further investigation, your doctor can do a biopsy. This involves removing a small sample of tissue to send to the laboratory. This may cause a little discomfort. It might take up to 2 weeks for the biopsy results to come back.
How soon will I recover from a colposcopy?After a colposcopy without a biopsy, you can carry on with your normal activities right away.
If you have had a biopsy, you might have cramps for a day or so. If so, paracetamol can help. It’s normal to have a slight vaginal discharge or spotting for around 5 days.
After a colposcopy or biopsy, it's best to avoid for at least 3 days or until your discharge goes away:
sex and heavy physical exercise
using tampons, lubricant or creams
swimming or having a bath
You should receive your results a week later. Your doctor will let you know if and what treatment is needed and when you should have your next test.
Resources and supportThe Cancer Council website has resources on colposcopy, cervical cancer, vaginal cancer and vulvar cancer. Call the Cancer Council on 13 11 20.
The Jean Hailes website has information on colposcopy and cervical cancer.
The Royal Women’s Hospital has a fact sheet on colposcopy, which is .
You can also call the healthdirect helpline on 1800 022 222 (known as NURSE-ON-CALL in Victoria). A registered nurse is available to speak with you 24 hours a day, 7 days a week.