Women Partners In OB/GYN - San Antonio, Texas

Colposcopy

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What Is a Colposcopy?

A colposcopy is a simple, in-office procedure used to closely examine the cervix, vagina, and vulva for signs of abnormal cells. If your Pap smear showed any irregularities, a colposcopy helps your provider take a closer look using a special magnifying device called a colposcope. The process is quick, and may include a small biopsy to collect a sample for further testing. It’s a key step in understanding your cervical health, and in most cases, it’s purely precautionary.

Why Might You Need a Colposcopy?

Your doctor may recommend a colposcopy if a recent Pap test showed abnormal cells, or if you’re experiencing symptoms like unexplained bleeding, genital warts, or chronic cervicitis (inflammation of the cervix). This exam allows us to get a closer look at your cervical tissue and identify any changes that might need further attention. In some cases, it’s also used to evaluate benign growths like polyps or to investigate pelvic pain.

What to Expect During the Procedure

This simple, in-office procedure is designed to closely examine the cervix and identify any abnormal areas that may need attention. You’ll be cared for in a comfortable setting, and our team will walk you through each step to ensure you feel informed and at ease.

What to Expect: 

  • You’ll lie back like a regular pelvic exam
  • We gently place a speculum
  • We apply a solution to highlight abnormal areas
  • A biopsy may be taken (if needed)

Frequently Asked Questions

Colposcopy

Most people describe the procedure as mildly uncomfortable, not painful. You may feel pressure from the speculum (like during a Pap smear). If a biopsy is taken, it might feel like a quick pinch or cramp. Over-the-counter pain relief like ibuprofen can help if needed. If you’re anxious or have a sensitive cervix, talk to your provider, they may offer numbing options.

Yes, you can return to work and most daily activities right away.
If a biopsy is done, you might have mild cramping or spotting for a day or two. Avoid strenuous exercise for 24 hours, and follow any specific instructions from your provider.
It depends on whether a biopsy is performed:
  • No biopsy? You may get results immediately.
  • Biopsy taken? Results usually take 1–2 weeks, but can take up to 4 weeks depending on the lab and provider.

It’s best to schedule your colposcopy when you’re not menstruating, especially if bleeding is heavy. Menstrual blood can make it harder to see the cervix clearly. That said, some providers may still proceed if bleeding is light. Always check with your clinic ahead of time.

Colposcopy itself does not affect fertility. It’s a diagnostic exam, not a treatment. If abnormal cells are found and treated later (e.g., with LEEP or cone biopsy), there may be a small risk of cervical changes that could affect pregnancy—but this is rare and usually manageable.

Your Comfort Comes First

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