Colposcopy and biopsyIf you have an abnormal Pap smear, your doctor might recommend a colposcopy and biopsy. It sounds very complicated, but it really isn't. For the procedure, you'll be in the same position as you are for a Pap smear--flat on your back, feet in the stirrups. A colposcope is nothing more than a fancy name for a microscope that the doctor uses to look at your cervix. I always think it feels warm because it has a very bright light on it, and that puts out some heat. To identify abnormal cells, your doctor will swab your cervix with a big Q-tip dipped in acetic acid, which is vinegar. The acetic acid makes the abnormal cells turn white. Then your doctor will take a metal tool and pinch off a little piece of your cervix. Yes, it hurts. It feels like a really bad cramp. But it ends quickly. The first time I had it done, she took 6 biopsies. I never wanted to go back! The whole purpose is to see what's going on beneath the surface of your cervix. I have heard of women who refused the biopsy because they thought it wasn't necesary--that they would wait for a followup Pap smear instead to see if it improves. I think that's really foolish, I do. The colposcopy and biopsy are no big deal. I know I said it hurts, but it's quick, and it doesn't affect your future fertility at all. In fact, sometimes they do it during pregnancy. It is such a tiny pinch of tissue that they remove. So if your doctor recommends an exam with a colposcope and biopsy, just do it. Ask if you can take some ibuprofen before you go to help with the cramping feeling. The biopsy can tell your doctor about what's going on better than just a Pap smear can. It may be very reassuring to know that things are okay, or if you do need more treatment, it was hopefully caught early.
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