What is a Colposcopy?
A colposcopy is the next step to making a diagnosis after a Pap smear test indicates that you might have abnormal cells. A colposcope is a special microscope through which the area of the abnormal cells can be seen, painlessly and easily. A small sample will be taken for examination if an abnormal area is seen.

What to Expect
You will first undress and change into a gown. Then, you will be asked to put your feet into the stirrups on the table. You will be asked to get into the lithotomy position, which is the same position you would get into if you were to be having a Pap smear. A speculum will be inserted in order for the cervix to be seen. Then, the colposcope will be used, to microscopically see the cells that cover the cervix. After this procedure, your doctor will use a diluted vinegar solution to stain the cervical cells on the uterus. This may be cold, and might sting a little. If the area looks suspicious, a biopsy may be taken. A gentle scraping may be done from inside the cervix to obtain a sample of cells from higher up in the cervical canal.

After the Procedure
After a colposcopy is performed, you may have some spotting for several days, especially if a biopsy is taken. For whatever time period is prescribed by your doctor, avoid using tampons and intercourse. If cramping is significant, you may use your normal pain reliever.