What is a cervical colposcopy and how is it performed?

Many women are scheduled for a colposcopy procedure. This is due to its important diagnostic value. This type of study helps to identify a number of changes at the initial stage of development of pathological processes on the cervix. Currently, the procedure is carried out using modern equipment, which allows you to get the most reliable results.

What is colposcopy

Colposcopy is a method of examining the inner walls of the vagina, as well as the vulva and cervix, using an optical device that helps to determine even the slightest changes in the epithelium lining the organ. To date, the procedure is carried out in several ways. The first - standard, includes the use of a microscope. The second one is practically similar, but a video device is additionally used, which allows you to reproduce the picture of the study on the monitor screen.

The colposcope is an optical instrument that was invented in 1925 but has only recently been improved.

The colposcopy method allows you to identify changes in the blood vessels and abnormal cells that may be precursors of malignant processes.

What is colposcopy - video

Why and what doctors conduct this study

Colposcopy is prescribed for a detailed study of the cervix and in the case when there are controversial points that require an accurate diagnosis. The procedure is a qualitative differential research method that helps to identify epithelial overgrowth, the presence of polyps and other mucosal defects. The study is carried out only by a gynecologist.

The principle of operation of the colposcope

The aiming colposcope consists of a binocular optical device that helps to obtain a three-dimensional picture by magnifying the image. The light source on the head of the device allows you to examine the cervix in detail and not miss even the slightest changes. Interchangeable eyepieces contribute to the gradual increase in the image.

The light source is directed to the area of ​​the mirror, which is installed in the vagina. In this case, the doctor adjusts the angle of the device in order to better examine the mucous membrane.

Modern video colposcopes are equipped with a special camera that helps to obtain even more accurate data and save them for further study.

Colposcope - an optical device that allows you to obtain reliable data on the condition of the cervix and the inner walls of the vagina

Types of colposcopy

This procedure is of two types: simple and advanced. The first allows you to examine the vessels and tissues, the presence of polyps, scars and erosions. Unlike the second method, it does not involve the use of additional solutions and tools. An extended colposcopy provides much more information and is performed using reagents. The main ones are:

• Lugol's solution;
• vinegar;
• iodine and potassium.

During an extended colposcopy, a thin probe is also used. The doctor presses them on areas that seem suspicious to him. If, as a result of this action, the tissue begins to bleed, then we can talk about malignant degeneration of tissues. With the help of reagents, the doctor treats the pathological areas and looks at the reaction. Normal tissues do not change color or (in the case of Lugol's solution) turn brown. Pathological zones acquire a light shade.

With the help of extended colposcopy, it is very easy to determine the initial stages of malignant degeneration of the endometrium.

Colposcopy of the cervix reveals areas of changes in the epithelium

Indications for the procedure

The expediency of this method can only be determined by a doctor. If during the gynecological examination the specialist suspects any pathology, he additionally offers the patient a colposcopy. The following complaints are also indications for the procedure:

• lower abdominal pain;
• spotting outside of menstruation;
• pain during intercourse;
• menstrual irregularities;
• purulent discharge from the genital tract.

Colposcopy can reveal:

• the presence of genital warts on the walls of the vagina;
• erosion of the cervix;
• foci of endometriosis (pathological growth of endometrial tissues);
• initial stages of malignant degeneration of tissues;
• atypical and dilated vessels;
• inflammatory processes in the cervical canal;
• uterine myoma;
• endometrial polyps.

Colposcopy is often performed several months after an abortion and other gynecological operations. This method allows you to determine the complications after interventions at an early stage of development.

Contraindications for the procedure

Colposcopy is contraindicated in the first 1.5 months after childbirth, abortion and other gynecological interventions: cauterization of cervical erosion, curettage of the endometrium, etc. An extended type of procedure is not recommended for women with individual iodine intolerance.

Can Colposcopy Be Performed During Pregnancy?

This procedure is not contraindicated during pregnancy. It will not only not bring harm, but will also allow the doctor to identify possible pathologies that may interfere with natural delivery. Colposcopy is performed at any stage of pregnancy. The only contraindication in this case may be the partial opening of the cervix.

Is the procedure carried out during menstruation

During the period of menstruation, the procedure is not carried out, since it is not possible to obtain reliable data during this period. Bloody discharge will interfere with the examination of the cervix and cervical canal. In addition, the possibility of conducting research using reagents is lost.

Training

Preparation for colposcopy includes the following rules:

1. Refrain from sexual intercourse for two days before the procedure.
2. Do not use douche. You can only wash the external genitalia with water.
3. Do not use vaginal suppositories and creams on the eve of the study.
4. Do not resort to the procedure in the presence of heavy bleeding or inform the doctor in advance.

It is better to resort to the procedure 2 days after the end of menstruation. This day of the cycle is the most favorable for colposcopy. No other special training is provided.

4 important facts - video

How is the procedure

Colposcopy usually takes no more than 20 minutes. The patient lies down in a gynecological chair, the doctor installs a mirror in the vagina. Then turn on the device and direct the lamp. First, there is a visual inspection and preliminary identification of pathological areas. Then, using Lugol's solution or acetic acid, the doctor treats the cervix using a cotton swab and tweezers.

After waiting a few minutes, the gynecologist evaluates the resulting picture and records the data in the patient's card. If some area is colored unevenly, then the doctor can re-test. If atypical areas are detected, the specialist may additionally prescribe a biopsy. This procedure involves taking a small amount of tissue for microscopic examination.

In this case, it is possible to detect cancer cells, areas of hyperplasia and determine the structure of the endometrium. The biopsy is performed under local anesthesia. Using special long forceps, the doctor cuts off a small piece of tissue and, if necessary, applies a self-absorbable suture.

A biopsy is performed only if there are indications: erosion with eversion, large polyps, bleeding scars.

Pathological cervix, which is diagnosed during colposcopy

Does a colposcopy hurt?

The procedure is absolutely painless. There may be minor discomfort during the procedure, as the mirror presses on the walls of the vagina. Colposcopy is not traumatic. If it is carried out by an experienced doctor, then no consequences will arise as a result.

What not to do after the procedure

After a colposcopy, a woman can continue to do her usual activities. However, it is better to refrain from sexual intercourse for one day. Physical activity is not contraindicated. After the procedure, it is advisable not to douche and not to use vaginal tampons and suppositories that day.

Transcription and results

The conclusion should contain the following parameters:

1. Cervix: pink, smooth, no abnormal cells detected. If the doctor points to an uneven color and structure, then, as a rule, he explains what the pathological zones are. It can be polyps, erosion, endometriosis, endocervicitis.
2. Staining with Lugol's solution revealed no areas of atypia. If some zones differ in shade, then this indicates the presence of pathologies.
3. Vascular pattern without features. With changes, the doctor explains the nature of atypia. Expansion of the vessel, change in its contour.
4. Transformation zones are normally present in every woman. This means the transition from one type of epithelium to another. Transformation zone 1 is considered the norm. Types 2 and 3 require additional diagnostics.
5. Normally, the cervix is ​​lined with stratified squamous epithelium. If cylindrical is detected, then this indicates the presence of ectopia.

As a result of the study, a diagnosis can be made:

1. Polyp. Formed from the endometrium. It does not pose a danger to life, but must be removed, as it can bleed if injured.
2. Endometriosis. It is an overgrowth of the endometrium, occurs due to hormonal failure. The amount of progesterone decreases and estrogen increases, stimulating tissue growth. It is subject to mandatory treatment, since endometriosis foci are able to grow into the deep layers of the uterus. The process is of good quality.
3. Erosion. May be true and false. In the first case, there is a significant pathological area (similar to a wound) on the cervix. Its edges are clear, palpation begins to bleed. False ectopia or pseudo-erosion of small size, disappears without treatment.
4. Endocervicitis. The inflammatory process in the cervical canal occurs with the introduction of pathogenic microflora. It is important to identify the pathogen. It can be either a bacterial or a viral infection. Pathology is subject to mandatory treatment.

During a biopsy, the doctor indicates the localization of the altered area using a special designation in hours. It's very easy to decipher. If, for example, erosion is at 6 o'clock, it means that the pathological area is located in the lower half of the neck, approximately in the center (orientation according to the usual dial).

Possible consequences

Subject to all the rules, there should not be any consequences after colposcopy. A small amount of brown discharge may be present. This is not a sign of pathology, but simply iodine, which was used during the procedure. For some time, there may be a pulling pain in the lower abdomen and in the vagina. Such unpleasant symptoms disappear on the second day.

Bloody discharge can be in the presence of erosion, endometriosis and scars on the neck, this is due to the sensitivity of the pathological zones to any even minor effects.