What You Can Expect When You Get A Colposcopy in Scottsdale

If you’ve been told you need a colposcopy in Scottsdale, it’s likely due to an abnormal Pap test, which is a screening tool that alerts your doctor when there are any cell changes taking place on your cervix. A colposcopy is a more thorough diagnostic procedure that allows for examination of your cervix using a microscope known as a colposcope.
But if you’ve been instructed to get one, don’t panic. An abnormal Pap test is very common; in fact, 10 percent of Pap tests reveal abnormal cells present. Most women who are given a colposcopy have a normal result, and follow up with a few more Pap tests to ensure their immune systems clear these cells on their own. Only a small percentage of these women will ever develop cervical cancer.
In Preparation for Your Colposcopy In Scottsdale
To prepare for your colposcopy, your doctor may recommend that you:
• Avoid scheduling your colposcopy during your period;
• Don’t have vaginal intercourse the day or two before your colposcopy;
• Don’t use tampons the day or two before your colposcopy;
• Don’t use vaginal medications for the two days before your colposcopy;
• Take an over-the-counter pain reliever, such as ibuprofen before going to your colposcopy appointment.
Coping With Anxiety Before Your Colposcopy
Many women experience anxiety as they wait for their colposcopy exams and many may even feel generally uncomfortable. Some may find it hard to concentrate and have difficulty sleeping.
Women who are very anxious about their colposcopy may experience more pain during the procedure than those who find ways to control and manage their anxiety. Women with high anxiety levels are also more likely to skip their colposcopy appointments.
Accept the fact that you’ll feel some anxiety as you wait for your colposcopy in Scottsdale, and find ways to cope, such as:
• Ask your doctor for brochures or pamphlets about colposcopy and what you can expect;
• Write down any questions or concerns you have about the procedure, and ask your doctor to review them with you before your colposcopy begins;
• Find activities that help you relax, such as exercise, meditation, and being with friends and family;
• Consider bringing a portable music device to your colposcopy appointment.
What to Expect During Your Colposcopy in Scottsdale
Colposcopy is typically performed in a doctor’s office, and the procedure normally takes 10 to 20 minutes. You’ll lie on your back on a table with your feet in supports, just as during a pelvic exam or Pap test. The doctor places a metal speculum in your vagina to hold open the walls of your vagina so that your doctor can see your cervix.
Your doctor positions the colposcope a few inches away from your vulva. A bright light is shown into your vagina, and your doctor looks through the lens, as if using binoculars. Your cervix and vagina are then swabbed with cotton to clear away any mucus.
After Your Colposcopy
If your doctor didn’t take a biopsy sample during your colposcopy in Scottsdale, you won’t have any restrictions on your activity once your exam is complete. You may experience some spotting or very light bleeding from your vagina in the next day or two.
If you had a biopsy sample taken during your colposcopy, you may experience:
• Vaginal or vulvar pain that lasts one or two days;
• Light bleeding from your vagina that lasts a few days;
• A dark discharge from your vagina.
Use a pad to catch any blood or discharge and avoid tampons, douching and vaginal intercourse for a week after your biopsy.
If you want or need more information regarding colposcopy in Scottsdale, please don’t hesitate to call our office today to schedule a consultation so we answer your questions and address your concerns.
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