When is Colposcopy Performed?
When is Colposcopy Performed?
Colposcopy: Situations Requiring Detailed Examination of Abnormal Findings
Colposcopy is a diagnostic method used to thoroughly examine abnormal cellular changes in the cervix (cervix), vagina, and vulva. This procedure is particularly useful when abnormal findings are detected in smear tests or HPV tests. Colposcopy allows doctors to closely examine cellular changes in the cervix and, if necessary, take biopsies. So, in which situations is colposcopy required?
Abnormal Smear Test Results Smear tests are commonly used for early detection of cervical cancer and other cellular abnormalities. If smear test results show deviations from normal cellular changes, your doctor may recommend colposcopy to assess the severity of these changes. Abnormal smear test results may include findings such as ASCUS, CIN1, CIN2, or CIN3.
Positive HPV Test Human Papilloma Virus (HPV) is one of the most significant risk factors for cervical cancer development. Women with a positive HPV test, especially those with high-risk HPV types, may need colposcopy to closely examine cervical cells. This examination is crucial to determine the presence of pre-cancerous cellular changes.
Abnormal Structures Found on the Cervix During a gynecological examination, if a doctor observes abnormal structures, masses, or lesions on the cervix, colposcopy may be recommended to evaluate these findings further. This helps provide more information on the nature and severity of suspicious structures.
Abnormal Vaginal Bleeding Abnormal vaginal bleeding, occurring outside of menstrual periods or after sexual intercourse, may indicate potential cervical issues. In such cases, colposcopy is recommended to identify the cause of the bleeding through cellular changes.
Changes in Vaginal Discharge Watery, bloody, or foul-smelling vaginal discharge may signal abnormal cervical cellular changes. Colposcopy helps identify the source of these abnormalities and allows for biopsy if necessary.
Abnormal Findings in Previous Biopsies If previous biopsies revealed abnormal cellular changes, colposcopy is performed to examine these findings in more detail. Particularly in cases of severe dysplasia, such as CIN2 or CIN3, colposcopy is essential for monitoring and evaluation.
Suspected Cervical Cancer Colposcopy is used to diagnose cervical cancer in women with suspected cases. Biopsies taken during colposcopy are examined in the laboratory to confirm the presence of cancerous cells.
Post-Treatment Follow-up For women undergoing treatment for cervical cellular changes, colposcopy may be performed for post-treatment monitoring. This helps assess the success of the treatment and detect possible recurrences early.
Vaginal and Vulvar Lesions Abnormal lesions or changes in the vagina or vulva can also be evaluated using colposcopy. These areas may show cellular changes linked to the cervix, requiring a detailed examination.
Other Gynecological Issues Certain gynecological issues, particularly those involving the cervix and vagina, can be better understood through colposcopy. Therefore, your doctor may recommend this procedure in specific cases.
