A colposcopy is a brief, in-office procedure that allows a healthcare provider to examine the cervix and surrounding tissues using a lighted microscope called a colposcope. It’s often performed after an abnormal Pap test or pelvic exam to look for changes in tissue structure, color, and patterns, as well as abnormal blood vessels. During the procedure, the provider may also take tissue samples, or biopsies, for laboratory evaluation.

If the colposcopy is done and a biopsy is taken, you may feel discomfort for one to two days. We suggest taking over the counter pain meds if needed. Some patients report having small amounts of bleeding and a dark discharge for a few days after the colposcopy.

We suggest that after a colposcopy you do not insert anything into the vagina, do not have sex, do not use tampons, and do not douche for about one week.