Colposcopy

Colposcopy is a procedure that is usually done to look at the cervix and vagina after a Pap test returns an abnormal result.  A colposcopy helps your health care practitioner determine the cause of an abnormal Pap smear.

A colposcopy allows the health care provider to take a close look at the vagina and cervix using a special piece of equipment called a colposcopy.  A colposcope is a lighted magnifying device with an eye piece that looks like a set of binoculars.  The practitioner looks through the colposcope to see problems that might be missed by the naked eye.  Sometimes acetic acid (vinegar) is applied to the cervix with a cotton swab to help highlight problem areas.

If abnormal areas are seen through the colposcope, a biopsy will be performed.  In a biopsy the practitioner takes a small amount of tissue that is then sent to the lab for identification.

LEEP

If you have an abnormal result on a colposcopy, your practitioner may suggest a LEEP procedure.  LEEP stands for loop electrosurgical excision procedure.

A local anesthetic is used to numb the cervix.  A small amount of vinegar (acetic acid) may be applied to the cervix to help identify the area of abnormality.  A LEEP uses a wire loop through which an electrical current is passed to simultaneously remove the abnormal tissue from the cervix and cauterize the site.  The tissue is sent to the lab to be examined and identified.

Following the procedure you may have mild cramps and some dark discharge.  Very little recovery time is necessary for this minimally invasive procedure.