Colposcopy

What is colposcopy?

Colposcopy is a diagnostic method examining the cervix, vagina, and vulva under magnification using a special instrument — the colposcope. It enables precise identification of changes invisible to the naked eye.

When is colposcopy performed?

• Abnormal PAP test — atypical cells (ASC-US, LSIL, HSIL, AGC)
• HPV positivity — high-risk types (HPV 16, 18, 31, 33, 45)
• Visual cervical changes — erosion, leukoplakia, suspicious lesions
• Post-coital bleeding — bleeding after sexual intercourse
• Post-treatment monitoring — follow-up after LEEP or conization

Colposcopy procedure

• Positioning — patient lies in gynecological position
• Speculum placement — cervical visualization
• Acetic acid application (3-5%) — marking abnormal zones (acetowhite lesions)
• Iodine test (Lugol solution) — normal tissue stains brown, pathological remains light
• Colposcopic findings — documentation of all changes per terminology system
• Biopsy — sampling suspicious areas for histopathological analysis

Colposcopic findings

• Normal finding — squamous and columnar epithelium without changes
• CIN I (LSIL) — mild dysplasia, usually monitored
• CIN II/III (HSIL) — moderate to severe dysplasia, requires intervention
• Suspicious for invasion — urgent referral for further diagnostics

Preparation and recommendations

The examination is painless, takes 10-15 minutes, and requires no special preparation. Avoiding sexual intercourse, vaginal preparations, and tampons 24-48 hours before the exam is recommended.