La colposcopies is an exam that allows you to visualize the cervix and vagina. It uses a colposcope, a magnifying optical device associated with a light source allowing a good view of the cervix.

Colposcopy is recommended when the doctor suspects the presence of abnormal lesions in the cervix, especially following a “ PAP test Or abnormal smear.

Colposcopy allows the doctor to see these lesions in detail, and to specify their nature and importance.

The exam is comparable to a cervical smear. It lasts about fifteen minutes and is performed in a gynecological position, after the introduction of a speculum which keeps the walls of the vagina apart.

The doctor then cleans the cervix with a solution (which also serves to stain abnormal cells) and places the colposcope in front of the vagina. Sometimes the colposcope is connected to a video monitor.

Depending on the situation, the doctor may take advantage of the examination to perform a smear (= PAP test) or a biopsy, which will make it possible to refine the diagnosis in the event of suspicious lesions.

Depending on the results of colposcopy and cytology (= cell analysis), your doctor will suggest appropriate management or regular monitoring to ensure that the lesions do not progress.

If necessary, excision of abnormal cells can be done in a number of ways:

• LEEP technique (loop electrosurgical excision technique)
• laser or cryotherapy surgery

conization (the lesion is removed by removing a cone-shaped piece of tissue from the cervix)