In the 24 hours before the procedure, your doctor may advise you to avoid:

• Having sexual intercourse
• Using medicine or creams in your vagina

Usually no anesthesia is needed. In certain cases, the cervix may be numbed with a local anesthetic.

You will lie on your back with your feet in foot rests. A device called a speculum will be inserted into your vagina. The speculum will gently spread apart the vaginal walls. The inside of the vagina and the cervix will be easier to see. The colposcope will be placed at the opening of the vagina. Then, the cervix will be wiped with a solution. The solution will make abnormal areas easier to see. The cervix and vagina will be examined closely with the colposcope. A long tool may be used to take a sample of tissue from the cervix or vaginal wall.

About 5-10 minutes

This procedure is usually painless. If a biopsy is taken, you may feel a slight pinch and mild cramping.

When you return home after the procedure, do the following to help ensure a smooth recovery:

• If you did not have a biopsy, return to normal activities. You may have light bleeding for a couple of days.
• If you had a biopsy, you may feel sore for a day or two. You may also have bleeding and dark discharge. You may need to use a sanitary pad for a few days. Do not put anything into your vagina for at least a week. Do not use tampons or have sex.
• Baths and showers are OK.

Results from a biopsy should be ready in about one week. The results will determine whether you need more testing or treatment.