Cant find something?

Colposcopy

  • You have been referred for colposcopy because the results of your HPV test were positive and/or showed abnormal cells on the cervix.
  • You may also be referred because of skin changes to the vulva.
A colposcopy is an office-based procedure that allows the doctor to examine the cervix, vagina and vulva.  The cervix is located inside the vagina at the bottom of the uterus, so a speculum is needed to see it properly.  Colposcopy is done by a specially trained gynecologist with the assistance of a nurse.  The procedure usually takes under 10 minutes. The colposcope itself is a special device that allows the doctor to view the cervix with a very bright light and magnification.
During colposcopy, the doctor is trying to identify any abnormal cells on the cervix, vagina, or vulva that could be pre-cancer or cancer
  • Do not have sexual intercourse 48 hours before your procedure
  • Do not use lubrication
  • Do not use a douche prior to the test
  • If you are pregnant, inform your doctor when you meet for your procedure
Our colposcopy clinic is currently located at the Queensway Health Centre at 150 Sherway Drive, Toronto, M9C 1A4 It is located on the ground floor in Surgical Clinic B.  (Please go to patient registration upon arrival)
If you have been instructed to go to Credit Valley Hospital, please go here.
A colposcopy is completed in several steps.
  1. Register at the hospital.  Once you are registered, a volunteer will bring you to the colposcopy clinic.
  2. If this is your first visit, meet your doctor to answer a few questions and ask any questions you may have.
  3. Get changed and ready for your examination
  4. The nurse will bring you into the exam room and help you get comfortable for the colposcopy exam.
  5. Your doctor will use a speculum to look inside the vagina to see the cervix.
  6. The colposcope will be positioned so your doctor can see properly.  The colposcope will be between your knees but does not enter the vagina.
  7. Your doctor will use some gauze to apply a solution (acetic acid) to cervix to help see better.  This will usually feel cold and sometimes there is mild burning.
  8. The acetic acid solution will help identify any abnormal areas.  If there is an abnormal area, a small tissue biopsy may be taken for analysis.  You will probably feel a slight pinch for this.
  9. At the completion of the procedure, the speculum will be removed and when you are ready you may go.
  • If a biopsy was taken there may be some bleeding for the next day or two.  You may also notice some discharge of clear fluid or a thicker darker coloured material.   Sexual intercourse, tampons, or douching should be avoided during this time.
  • If no biopsy was required, there are no restrictions.
Colposcopy is a safe procedure, but there are some risks.  These include:
  • A small amount of bleeding is expected. Although very rare, if there is very heavy bleeding (soaking through 3-4 pads in 2 hours), please go to the emergency room.
  • This is also very rare.  Antibiotics are not provided during colposcopy, but if you develop significant pelvic pain, discharge with pus, or fever please go to the emergency room for assessment.
There are several possible results from colposcopy. The most common results are:
Result Meaning
Normal
  • This result confirms no abnormality was detected.
Low-Grade Changes (LSIL)
  •  Although this result confirms there has been exposure to HPV, it provides reassurance there is no high-grade change or cancer.
  • Low grade lesions will usually get better on their own without any treatment, but may require monitoring.
High-Grade Changes (HSIL)
  • This result can occur when someone is exposed to a high-risk version of HPV.
  • High-grade changes are NOT cancer, but can become cancer if not treated over time.
  • Patients with these changes usually have a LEEP procedure
  • Click for more information about HPV

That will depend on the results of your assessment.  Some people need only one visit, others need 2 or more visits.  And some people will need to have a LEEP procedure.

Yes

Most people are able to return to work following their colposcopy.
Yes, colposcopy is frequently performed during pregnancy, but it is important to discuss this with your doctor before the procedure.
Although cervical cancer takes time to develop, avoiding it altogether is very important. Unfortunately, patients who delay or avoid their appointments are at increased risk of cervical cancer.
While you are under the care of the gynecologist for colposcopy, you do not need screening tests with your family doctor.  When you are ready for discharge from colposcopy, your doctor will provide you with clear instructions when to see your family doctor for your next test.
http://www.hpvinfo.ca http://www.ontariohealth.ca/cervical-test https://gynqi.com/colposcopy/

Cant find something?

For Our Valued Patients

Supporting Your Health, Every Step of the Way

Explore our Patient Resources section for informative articles, FAQs, and guides on women’s health topics ranging from prenatal care to menopause management.

Pregnancy Resources
Gynecology Resources

At Queensway Obstetrics and Gynecology, we are dedicated to delivering personalized and compassionate care to women at every stage of life. From routine check-ups to specialized treatments, our experienced team is here to support your health, well-being, and peace of mind. We strive to create a welcoming and comfortable environment where you can feel confident in your care and empowered in your health decisions.

WordPress Appliance - Powered by TurnKey Linux