A colposcopy is a diagnostic test using a special microscope to look at the cervix and the use of special solutions which will highlight abnormal areas. A biopsy can be performed if needed and treatment then planned. In the UK, the Royal College of Obstetricians and Gynaecologists (RCOG) and the British Society for Colposcopy and Cervical Pathology (BSCCP) are the regulatory bodies which certify healthcare professionals to perform colposcopy.
What is CIN?
The most common reason for a colposcopy referral is due to an abnormal PAP smear test. The smear test is a screening test whereas a Colposcopy is a diagnostic test. Apart from minor changes on the cervix which usually does not need any treatment, a Colposcopy will also pick up pre-cancerous changes on the cervix which is commonly called CIN. Although this may sound frightening, it is actually the purpose of the smear test and colposcopy to pick up these changes as the treatment for this is relatively straightforward and can be successfully done under a local anaesthetic in the clinic.
CIN is usually graded from mild (CIN I), moderate (CIN 2) and severe (CIN 3). Mild changes can usually be observed as there is a good chance of it regressing without any treatment. If you are a smoker, you should try to give up smoking as this is one of the main risk factors for CIN. For high grade CIN (CIN 2 and 3), treatment in the form of a LLETZ is usually recommended depending on your circumstances.
If CIN is diagnosed, Mr Razvi will be able to advice an appropriate treatment based on the clinical situation and your personal requirements.
What are the reasons I may need a Colposcopy procedure:
- An abnormal smear result (most common reason)
- A positive High Risk HPV test with minor smear abnormalities.
- Bleeding after sexual intercourse
- A lesion on the cervix
- Other abnormal vaginal bleeding or persistent discharge
- Women who are at higher risk for CIN and cervical cancer eg. On immunosuppression drugs (kidney transplant, lupus), HIV
What happens during a colposcopy procedure
A colposcopy procedure, in many ways is similar to undergoing a smear test. We used a special magnifying telescope called a Colposcope as well as special solutions applied to the cervix / vagina to look for skin changes which are not normally seen by the naked eye. Depending on the results of this examination, a biopsy (taking a small pinch of skin) is sometimes necessary for diagnostic reasons. This will be sent to the laboratory for assessment by a pathologist. Based on the results, further treaments may be recommended.