Colposcopy
Modern cervical examination for accurate diagnosis of gynecological conditions and abnormalities.
Colposcopy is a procedure that allows for a detailed examination of the cervix, vagina, and external genital organs of a woman in order to detect any abnormalities.
The usual indication for a colposcopy is the detection of abnormal cells in the Pap test. It is applied in women with lesions or precancerous damage to the cervix. Colposcopy is performed with the help of a special device (colposcope). The colposcope is a low-power microscope that provides strong lighting and multiple magnifications, and it can also take photographs for imaging and archiving of the cervix.
The colposcopy exam does not differ much from the Pap test examination and, generally, it is not painful. If the doctor deems it necessary, a biopsy may be taken. Biopsies are performed using special forceps and are not painful. The tissue sample that is collected is sent to the laboratory for histological analysis.