Your colposcopy appointment will take around 20 to 30 minutes.
First, your doctor will talk to you about your colposcopy, ask about your cervical screening history, and answer any questions that you may have. You can ask as many questions as you like, before, and at any time during your appointment.
A colposcopy procedure is quick, and is similar to a cervical screening test.
You will be asked to take off all the clothing on the lower half of your body, in private, and lie on an examination bed, covered with a sheet, with your legs supported.
When you are ready, the doctor will insert a speculum into your vagina and look at your cervix using a colposcope. This is a special piece of equipment, like a pair of binoculars on a stand with a strong light attached. It does not touch your body.
Once the doctor can see your cervix clearly, they will put a liquid on it which will turn abnormal cells white.
The doctor may take biopsies, or small pieces of tissue, from any areas that look abnormal.
A biopsy does not need anaesthetic; some people don’t feel it, some feel a pinch or discomfort.
If you have a biopsy, your doctor may put a medical paste on your cervix to reduce bleeding.