Preparing for a Colposcopy Exam

A colposcopy exam, which is performed if a woman's Pap test comes back abnormal, plays a key role in the detection of cervical cancer. The procedure utilizes a colposcope, which works similarly to a microscope to examine the cervix to detect abnormal cells. If the physician administering the exam notices abnormal cells, he or she will take a biopsy, or skin sample, which will be sent out to the lab to be tested. Here are some of the things that all women should know about preparing for a colposcopy exam.

Schedule a Colposcopy at the Right Time

When scheduling your colposcopy, it is important to plan ahead. Be sure to schedule the exam at a time when you will not have your menstrual period. Aside from the embarrassment of visiting the gynecologist with your period, most doctors will not perform a colposcopy at this time because menstruation can prevent an accurate result.

What You Shouldn't Do Prior to a Colposcopy

There are several things that women should not do prior to a colposcopy exam, as they may interfere with results. According to Planned Parenthood, women should avoid the following things 24 hours prior to the exam:

1. Sexual intercourse. Having sexual intercourse or inserting sex toys into the vagina should be avoided prior to a colposcopy procedure.

2. Using tampons. This can generally be avoided by scheduling the exam a few weeks after your next expected period. That said, it is ideal to use a sanitary napkin if you experience any type of menstrual bleeding the day before the procedure.

3. Vaginal douching. Like with traditional pelvic exams, women are not recommended to douche prior to the procedure, as it is thought to interfere with adults. Also, according to the Riverside Health System, vaginal medications should be avoided.

Take Medication Before the Colposcopy Procedure

Women are generally recommended to take over-the-counter pain medications, such as ibuprofen, an hour before the colposcopy procedure. Most physicians' offices will provide you with mediation before the exam or you may be told to take it an hour before your exam. Ibuprofen can help ensure that you experience less discomfort during the procedure, especially if a biopsy is taken.

Taking steps to prepare for a colposcopy can help ensure that the procedure goes a lot smoother. If you have any questions about things that you should or should not do prior to the exam, it is ideal to ask your doctor.

Disclaimer: This article is for educational purposes only and is not intended to replace the diagnosis or treatment of a licensed healthcare professional. If you have any concerns about your health, be sure to seek medical attention.

Sources:

Planned Parenthood, "Colposcopy."

Riverside Health System, "Colposcopy: A follow-up to abnormal Pap test results."