Colposcopy

The colposcopy service is part of the women’s health unit, located on Level 2 in the RVI’s New Victoria Wing.

You will be seen by either an accredited colposcopist or a trainee who is undergoing British Society for Colposcopy and Cervical Pathology recognised training.

What is colposcopy?

Colposcopy is a means of looking at the neck of the womb (cervix) with a magnifying instrument (colposcope). This helps the colposcopist to detect any abnormalities which are present on your cervix.

When you come to the colposcopy clinic for the first time you will be seen by the doctor or specialist nurse who will check your personal details and medical history. We will explain the reason for your referral and explain what to expect in the clinic.

You will be shown to an examination room and asked to remove your lower garments in a private changing area and put on a gown.

You will then lie on a special couch – your legs will be supported on rests. Every effort will be made to ensure your privacy and dignity is maintained throughout the examination. There will be a nurse or healthcare assistant to support you throughout the examination and if you would like to bring in someone for additional support, just mention it to the clinic staff.

A speculum will be gently inserted into your vagina to allow the colposcopist to see your cervix clearly. The colposcope does not go inside you. It is positioned about 30 cm away. The colposcopist uses the colposcope to magnify and direct light onto your cervix to assist with the examination.

A solution of weak acetic acid (mild white vinegar) is then dabbed over your cervix to help identify any abnormal areas. This should not hurt but some women say they feel a slight stinging sensation.

Sometimes a brown solution of iodine is used. If an abnormal area is identified, the colposcopist will explain whether a biopsy or treatment is recommended.

Frequently asked questions

What do I need to bring to my clinic appointment?

Bring your appointment letter so you can be sure to find us. You may find it helpful to write down any questions that you have for the colposcopist.

What should I do if I have a period on the day of my colposcopy appointment?

We would encourage you to attend your appointment as usually does not impact our examination.

However, we know some people may prefer to rearrange their appointment and if so, you can reschedule through 0191 282 5670

Can I have sex in the week before I have a colposcopy?

You don’t need to avoid intercourse before you have a colposcopy unless you have a coil for contraception. If so, we advise avoiding intercourse or using an additional contraceptive for 7 days before your appointment as sometimes we need to remove the coil if a treatment is needed

What if I am pregnant or think I might be?

It is important to keep your colposcopy appointment. A colposcopy examination is safe in pregnancy. However, we would usually delay any additional investigations until after the pregnancy

Will having a colposcopy affect my fertility or sex life?

Having a colposcopy examination will not affect your fertility or sex life. If a treatment is recommended, your colposcopist will discuss the potential effects with you at your appointment.

Leaflets about colposcopy