A colposcopy may be recommended following cervical cancer screening results that require further assessment. This examination allows a detailed evaluation of the cervix and, when necessary, helps guide further management and follow-up.
1. Why might a colposcopy be recommended ?
Cervical cancer screening is recommended for all women aged 25 to 65 years. Its purpose is to detect possible changes in the cervix at an early stage, in order to offer appropriate monitoring or treatment and prevent progression to cervical cancer.
These abnormalities are usually not visible during a routine gynaecological examination and generally do not cause any symptoms.
How often should cervical screening be performed?
- From 25 to 29 years old:
screening is based on the analysis of cervical cells (cytology, formerly known as a “Pap smear”) every 3 years, according to current recommendations.
- From 30 to 65 years old:
screening is based on testing for human papillomavirus (HPV). If the result is negative, screening is generally performed every 5 years.
What does the test result mean?
- A normal result means that no abnormality requiring specific management has been detected. You should simply continue your routine gynaecological follow-up according to recommended screening intervals.
- An abnormal result does not mean that you have cancer. It may be related to a temporary HPV infection or to cervical cell changes that require monitoring or further investigations.
- Depending on the test result and your individual situation, management may range from simple monitoring to additional examinations such as a colposcopy, or treatment when necessary.
Each situation is assessed individually in order to recommend the most appropriate care plan.
2. How is the colposcopy performed?
A colposcopy is an examination carried out during a consultation. It takes approximately 10 to 15 minutes and does not require anaesthesia or hospitalisation.
After inserting a speculum, the cervix is examined using a colposcope (a specialised microscope) which allows a detailed view of the cervix.
Solutions are then applied to the cervix to highlight any possible abnormalities. These solutions are usually painless, although they may occasionally cause mild stinging.
If an abnormal area is identified, a biopsy (a small tissue sample) may be taken to confirm the diagnosis. This procedure is very quick and may feel like a brief pinch. If the examination is normal, no biopsy is required.
Before the examination
- Colposcopy should be performed outside the menstrual period.
- There is no need to fast before the examination.
- It is recommended to avoid sexual intercourse, tampons, vaginal creams or vaginal tablets/ovules during the 48 hours before the examination.
- In postmenopausal women who are not taking hormone therapy, a local oestrogen treatment may be prescribed a few weeks before the examination to improve the quality of the examination.
After the examination
If no biopsy has been performed, you can resume your usual activities immediately.
If a biopsy has been taken, light bleeding or coloured vaginal discharge may occur for a few days. It is recommended to use sanitary protection and avoid baths, swimming pools and sexual intercourse for 3 to 4 days to allow proper healing.
Biopsy results are usually available within one to two weeks and will be discussed with you during your follow-up appointment.
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