Colposcopy - Common Medical Tourism Procedures
Definition:
Colposcopy is a gynecological diagnostic procedure to examine an illuminated, magnified view of the cervix, vagina and vulva. It helps to detect and evaluate abnormalities of these organs and helps to diagnose various disease conditions especially in cases of abnormal appearing of cervix or abnormal Pap smear results.
Additional information about the procedure
Calposcopy is noninvasive and usually painless procedure that requires 10-15 minutes. It is generally performed in gynecologist’s chamber.
Preparation before procedure
- Schedule test when not menstruating
- Avoid douching, sexual intercourse, vaginal medications and tampons for 24 hours before the procedure
A gynecologist will examine the cervix vagina and vulva by using a light source and a binocular microscope to detect and evaluate various abnormalities such as
- Inflammatory or infectious changes
- Harmless or cancerous growths
- Injuries
Special tests such as acetic acid wash, use of color filters and biopsy of the tissues may be done during Colposcopy for accurate diagnosis.
In some cases, certain treatment procedures are also performed during Colposcopy to destruct the abnormalities of cervix. These include
- Cryocautery and carbon dioxide laser,
- Removal (resection) procedures known as loop electrosurgical excision procedure (LEEP)
These treatment procedures are associated with some discomfort or pain.
Precautions after the Procedure
After the colposcopy procedure, patients may experience a little bleeding or green - coffee colored fluid for a few days. Patient is advised to avoid douching, sexual intercourse, vaginal medications, or tampons until the bleeding stops.
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