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Colposcopy is a more detailed look at the cervix (neck of the womb) using a special microscope (a colposcope). The usual reason for having a colposcopy is an abnormal cervical screening (smear test) result.
Colposcopy is also used to investigate an unusual looking cervix or vaginal bleeding.
The colposcopist will be looking for cells that appear cancerous or are showing pre-cancerous changes.
Pre-cancerous changes are known as ‘cervical intra-epithelial neoplasia’ or CIN. There are three grades of CIN. The grades describe how far the abnormal cells have gone into the surface layer of the cervix. With all three grades of CIN, often only a small part of the cervix is affected by abnormal changes.
Sometimes the abnormal cells are found in special mucus-producing tissue. These abnormal cells are called CGIN.
Neither CGIN or CIN mean that you have cancer, but if left untreated, these abnormal cells are at risk of developing into cancer over a long period of time in the future.
There are no risks associated with having a colposcopy, but there are some risks associated with the treatments or biopsies you may be offered. Your colposcopist will discuss these with you during the appointment.
Colposcopy alone will not leave you with any side effects. However, if you accept any treatments or biopsies, your colposcopist will discuss with you what to expect.
After your colposcopy, you may be discharged immediately back to the care of your GP, but if any tests are performed we aim to write to you within 8 weeks with your results and a plan of care.
Please ensure we have the correct contact details.
01709 424300
Monday to Friday, 9am to 4pm
01709 427641
Monday to Friday, 9am to 4pm