Colposcopy and HPV
Colposcopy: a magnified examination of the cervix after an abnormal smear test or a positive HPV test, with targeted biopsy where needed.
What a colposcopy is
This is an examination in which the cervix is viewed magnified, using a powerful lens and applying solutions that highlight areas of change. Nothing enters the uterus: it's done like a normal gynaecological examination, with the colposcope positioned outside the body. It takes a few minutes and generally only causes mild discomfort.
When it's indicated
- An abnormal smear test result.
- A HPV test that's positive, especially for high-risk genotypes.
- A cervix that looks suspicious at a check-up.
- Bleeding after sex with no other explanation.
- Follow-up of lesions already known or treated.
HPV, without alarm
Human papillomavirus infection is very common and in most people it clears on its own within a year or two. A positive result doesn't mean you have cancer or that you will: it means the cervix needs monitoring, because the lesions that do matter are caught and treated long before they become a problem. That's exactly the point of screening.
If a biopsy is needed
When a suspicious area is seen, a biopsyis taken: a very small sample sent for analysis. It can be briefly uncomfortable and leave light bleeding for a few days. Based on the result, a decision is made: routine monitoring in most cases, or treating the lesion where indicated. All the follow-up is handled through the gynaecology.
Frequently asked questions
Does having HPV mean I am going to get cancer?
No. Human papillomavirus infection is very common and in most people it clears on its own within one or two years. A positive result means the cervix needs to be monitored, because the lesions that do matter are detected and treated long before they become a problem.
Does a colposcopy hurt?
It is carried out like a normal gynaecological examination, with the colposcope positioned outside: nothing goes inside the uterus. It takes a few minutes and generally causes only mild discomfort. If a biopsy has to be taken, you may feel a brief pinch and have slight bleeding for a few days.
What if the biopsy comes back abnormal?
Most of the lesions detected are low grade and only require periodic monitoring, because many resolve on their own. When the grade justifies it, there are simple and effective treatments applied to the lesion itself. All the follow-up is handled from the gynaecology clinic.
What happens if a colposcopy comes back positive?
It means an area with changes has been seen and a biopsy is taken to find out its grade. Most are low-grade lesions that only need periodic follow-up, because many resolve on their own. When the grade warrants it there are simple treatments applied to the lesion itself, and follow-up continues afterwards.
When is a colposcopy requested?
After an abnormal smear test, with a positive high-risk HPV test, if the cervix looks suspicious on examination, with bleeding after sex with no other cause, or to follow up lesions that are already known or have been treated.