Colposcopy is a method of examining the part of the womb (the cervix) that is visible within the vagina using illuminated magnification. The viewing instrument used is a binocular microsocope called a colposcope, which can examine the cervix under different degrees of magnification.

Why it should be done

It is performed to identify early cancerous or pre-cancerous cells in the cervix.

How is it performed

The procedure requires no anaesthetic and is very similar to having a cervical smear but takes a little longer.

The women lies on her back with her legs apart. The vagina is gently held apart with a speculum, so that the doctor can see the opening of the cervix. A solution is applied to the area of the cervix, so pre-cancerous areas show up.

A narrow tube containing the colposcope is carefully inserted and focused on the cervix, allowing the doctor to check for any suspicious cells. If any pre-cancerous or early cancerous cells are detected a small sample of tissue will be removed (biopsy) from the cervix for examination under the microscope. It is recommended that women are not having a period at the time of the colposcopy as the cervix may not be visible.

When the procedure shows an obvious abnormality or a positive biopsy, the woman may be treated straight after the colposcopy examination. The most common treatment is the LLETZ (Large Loop Excision of the Transformation Zone). This method uses an electric loop to remove the abnormal cells. In general, LLETZ is performed under local anaesthetic, although occasionally it is done under general anaesthetic.

If the biopsy shows high-grade changes sometimes a cone biopsy is used. This treatment removes a small cone shaped piece of tissue from the cervix. It is used to provide a larger sample for assessment. A cone biopsy usually requires a general anaesthetic