Colposcopy

Colposcopy services offered in Chinatown and Lower Manhattan, New York, Brooklyn and Flushing, NY

If your gynecologist recommends colposcopy after an abnormal Pap test, you might have some questions or concerns about why you need the exam and what to expect. At Bayard Street Obstetrics & Gynecology in Lower Manhattan, Sunset Park in Brooklyn, and Flushing, Queens, the experienced team keeps you as comfortable as possible during your colposcopy and explains the procedure to you in detail. They also provide detailed information about your results. Schedule your appointment over the phone or request one online today.

What is colposcopy?

Colposcopy is an in-office diagnostic procedure specifically to diagnose cervical cancer or pre-cancer. Using colposcopy, the team at Bayard Street Obstetrics & Gynecology can closely examine you for abnormal cells or cells that are changing. The procedure can also evaluate other pelvic organs, like your vagina and vulva, for precancerous changes or genital warts.

During colposcopy, your provider views the cervix up close using an instrument called a colposcope.

A colposcope is a magnifying instrument similar to binoculars. Your provider shines a light into the vaginal opening before viewing your cervix through the colposcope’s eyepiece. They may apply a solution to the cervix to help highlight cell abnormalities. The instrument itself does not touch you or enter your body.

If your provider sees any unusual cells on your cervix, they take a tissue sample called a biopsy. The sample can come from the outside of the cervix or from just inside the opening. While the colposcopy itself is pain-free, you may feel cramping or pinching as your provider takes the biopsy. Then, they send the sample to a laboratory for testing.

When do I need a colposcopy?

Each year, you should visit the team at Bayard Street Obstetrics & Gynecology for a pelvic examination.

If they detect certain abnormalities during a Pap test, your provider at Bayard Street Obstetrics & Gynecology recommends colposcopy as the next step. They might also recommend colposcopy after seeing unusual changes or symptoms on your vagina or vulva during a regular pelvic examination.

How should I prepare for a colposcopy?

Before your colposcopy, you should:

Stop using any vaginal medications for two days
Take an over-the-counter pain reliever shortly before your appointment
Reschedule the test if you get your period

If you’re due for a Pap test, or if you’d like to learn more about colposcopy, call Bayard Street Obstetrics & Gynecology or schedule an appointment online today.