What to Expect Before, During, and After a Colposcopy

Hearing that you need a colposcopy can feel overwhelming. It’s normal to feel anxious or unsure about what will happen. However, the more you understand the process, the more comfortable and confident you will be when the day arrives. 

At Innovative Women’s Care in Las Vegas, Nevada, board-certified OB/GYN provider Marguerite Brathwaite, MD, F.A.C.O.G., can answer questions and ensure you feel prepared.  Let’s walk through what you can expect before, during, and after the procedure.

How to prepare before your colposcopy

Dr. Brathwaite may recommend a colposcopy if your recent Pap smear results were abnormal or unclear. Getting a colposcopy doesn’t mean something serious is wrong. It simply means Dr. Brathwaite wants to take a closer look at your cervix. The goal is early detection, not to scare you.

To prepare, avoid using tampons, vaginal creams, or douches for at least 24 to 48 hours before your appointment. Also, try to avoid scheduling the procedure during your period, if possible. Dr. Brathwaite will get a clearer view if you're not bleeding.

Wear something comfortable to your appointment, and bring a panty liner just in case you experience some spotting afterward. It's a quick visit, but being prepared helps.

What happens during the colposcopy

The procedure takes place in a regular exam room, not a surgical center. You’ll lie back on the table just like you would for a Pap test. A speculum is gently inserted so Dr. Brathwaite can see your cervix.

She will then use a tool called a colposcope, a magnifying device that remains outside the body, to examine the area more closely. A vinegar-like solution may be applied to the cervix to highlight any unusual areas. It might tingle or sting a little, but it’s brief.

If anything appears suspicious, Dr. Brathwaite may take a small tissue sample, known as a biopsy. You may feel a slight pinch or mild cramping that lasts only a few seconds.

Most colposcopies, even those that require a biopsy, take approximately 10 to 20 minutes from start to finish.

What to expect after the procedure

You can return to most of your usual activities right after the appointment. If a biopsy was taken, you may have some light spotting or brownish discharge. That’s totally normal.

Avoid tampons, douching, and vaginal intercourse for several days. You may experience mild cramps afterward, but over-the-counter pain relief, such as ibuprofen, should alleviate the discomfort. Watch for any unusual symptoms, such as heavy bleeding, fever, or discharge with a foul odor. These are not common and should be reported to us immediately.

Waiting for your biopsy results and what comes next

The tissue would be sent to a lab for review if Dr. Brathwaite took a biopsy. It typically takes one to two weeks to receive the results. We will contact you when they're ready and explain what we found.

Sometimes, the results reveal only minor cell changes that do not require immediate treatment. At other times, further monitoring or treatment may be recommended. Either way, early detection is key, and that’s why this step matters.

Ask as many questions as you need to. We are here to support you and help you understand your next steps clearly.

A colposcopy is nothing to fear

Yes, it’s a medical procedure, but it’s also a powerful tool that helps maintain your health. It’s quick, usually low-pain, and gives Dr. Brathwaite critical information to make informed decisions about your care.

So take a deep breath. You’re doing the right thing for your health. Call the office or schedule an appointment online today.