Dr. Meena Muthaiah is a consultant at Manipal Hospital, Bangalore. After studying MBBS from Madurai Medical College in 1993, then continued and pursued DNB from Manipal hospital Bangalore in 2000. With an experience of more than 20 years, she has specialized in the treatment of high-risk pregnancies, colposcopy, vaginal surgeries, minimally invasive surgery, genetic & haematological disorders. During Under-graduation she was honored with Gold Medal in OBG and Gynae. Along with being an esteemed member of the Bangalore Society of Obstetrics & Gynaecology, she is also a part of the Federation of Obstetric and Gynaecological Societies of India.
Colposcopy
It is a process of closely examining the cervix, vagina, and vulva for signs of any disease. A special instrument called a colposcope is used for the same. You need to undergo colposcopy if your Pap test result is abnormal. It is also accustomed to diagnose Genital warts, Inflammation of the cervix, Precancerous changes within the tissue of the cervix, vagina, and vulva. When an unusual area of cells is found during the colposcopy procedure, a sample of tissue will be collected for biopsy. Experiencing anxiety before your colposcopy exam is quite common. Knowing what to expect during the procedure may help you feel more comfortable.
Preparation for Colposcopy
When you prepare for your colposcopy, your doctor may recommend you to avoid scheduling it during your period, do not have vaginal intercourse, tampons, and vaginal medications the day or two before.
Coping with anxiety before your colposcopy
Most women experience anxiety before colposcopy exams and it can make you feel generally uncomfortable. Difficulty in sleeping and concentrating may be observed by you. Unnecessary anxiousness will result in more pain during the procedure.
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Ask your doctor for pamphlets about colposcopy.
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Find relaxing activities such as exercise, meditation, and being with friends and family.
What to expect during the Colposcopy?
Colposcopy is usually done in a doctor's office within 10 to 20 minutes. You'll be lying on your back on a table with your feet in supports. The way you do it during a pelvic exam or Pap test. A metal speculum is placed in your vagina. It holds open the walls of your vagina that enable your doctor to see the cervix. A special magnifying instrument, called a colposcope is positioned, a few inches away from your vulva. Then using a bright shining light into your vagina she looks through the lens of the colposcope as if using binoculars. Your cervix and vagina are cleaned using cotton to clear away any mucus. A solution of vinegar or another type of solution to the area may be applied. This may cause a burning or tingling sensation, but helps highlight the areas of suspicious cells.
During the biopsy
If any suspicious area is discovered, a small sample of tissue may be collected for laboratory testing. The doctor makes use of a sharp biopsy instrument to remove a small piece of tissue.
After the colposcopy
Once your exam is complete you won't have any restrictions on your activity if your doctor didn't take a biopsy sample during your colposcopy. Some spotting or very light bleeding from the vagina may be seen in the next day or two. If a biopsy sample is taken during colposcopy, you may experience vaginal or vulvar pain, light bleeding from your vagina, or a dark discharge from your vagina.
Take away
Before you leave, ask your doctor when you can expect the results. The results of your colposcopy will determine whether you need any further testing and treatment. For best consultation, and cure feel free to contact Gynaecologist and Obstetrician Dr. Meena Muthaiah at Manipal Hospital, Bangalore.
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