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Colposcopy terror

Colposcopy is similar to a cervical smear, in that a speculum is inserted into the vagina to reveal the cervix. The doctor then views the cervix through a microscope that remains outside the woman's body. The cervix is then painted with acetic acid (white vinegar) which dehydrates abnormal cells to produce visible white patches that can be biopsied. An iodine based stain may also be applied to the cervix to look for other abnormal areas that may also be biopsied and investigated further. The doctor may, if necessary, use freezing (cryotherapy) or heat (electrocautery) to destroy small abnormal areas after the biopsy is taken. Colposcopy can cause discomfort, which is usually described as similar to the feeling of bad period cramps. The area can be numbed with internal injections into the top of the vagina if necessary but often these are unnecessary.

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