Colposcopy Results: Understanding Your Pap Smear and Biopsy Findings

A colposcopy is a test that helps to examine the cervix for signs of pre-cancerous or cancerous tissue. The cervix is the end of the vagina on the lower part of the uterus, where it opens into the womb. Doctors conduct a colposcopy if you have had a positive HPV or abnormal Pap test. The diagnostic procedure allows the healthcare provider to take a closer look. Learn more about colposcopy results and understand your Pap smear and biopsy findings.

Getting a Colposcopy

A colposcopy allows healthcare providers to check for abnormalities in the cervix. They examine the lower part of the uterus and the vaginal wall for abnormal tissue. During the procedure, doctors use a tube-shaped speculum to keep the vagina open.

A special lighted microscope helps magnify the tissue lining the vagina and cervix. Biopsies or tissue samples of any abnormalities go to the lab for testing. The procedure can help detect pre-cancerous or cancerous cells.

When Is a Colposcopy Done

Doctors perform a colposcopy if the results of cervical screening (a smear test) find abnormal cells in the cervix. They are a result of the human papillomavirus (HPV). The cells may not be cancerous, but if not treated, they can eventually cause cervical cancer. A colposcopy may be necessary if:
 

• The results of a Pap smear show changes in the cervix cells
   

• Several screening tests fail to produce clear results
   

• There are unusual symptoms, such as itching and abnormal vaginal bleeding after sex
   

• There are genital warts or non-cancerous growths (polyps)

Finding cancer during a colposcopy is rare, and women should not worry when doctors recommend the test.

Colposcopy Results: What to Expect

You will know immediately if the colposcopy result does not reveal abnormal cells. If you need a biopsy, you must wait four to eight weeks to get the results. If you have pre-cancerous cells, they are not likely to turn into cancer as you wait for your results.

A colposcopy can allow your doctor to detect and treat pre-cancerous cells early. Regardless of the results, you will need to schedule cervical screenings in the future.

Your Biopsy Results: What They Show

It is necessary to know that your biopsy results may not reveal any abnormal cells. It is known as a normal result. Your healthcare provider will invite you for another screening in three to five years, depending on your age. If your biopsy reveals abnormal cervical cells, you have an abnormal result.

It does not mean you have cancer, but there is a risk the cells can turn cancerous in the future if left untreated. Abnormal cervical cells can be termed cervical intra-epithelial neoplasia (CIN) or cervical glandular intra-epithelial neoplasia (CGIN).

After the Test Results

If your results show CIN1, you are low-risk and do not need immediate treatment. The doctor may offer a colposcopy or follow-up smear test to check the cells. If you return CIN2 results, you are at medium risk and will require a follow-up colposcopy or treatment to remove the cells. CIN3 results indicate high risk, and you need treatment to remove the cells.

A colposcopy is a painless procedure that can take less than 30 minutes. In most cases, it does not detect anything to worry about. However, if the specialist detects cancer, they will discuss treatment.

For more on colposcopy results and understanding your Pap smear and biopsy findings, visit Partners in Obstetrics & Women’s Health. Our office is in New Lenox, Illinois. Call (815) 240-0554 to schedule an appointment today.