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Understanding Colposcopy

A colposcopy is a close-up examination of the cervix carried out by a doctor or nurse using a special magnifying instrument. You may be referred for one if your cervical screening result came back abnormal and your doctor wants to take a closer look. It is a routine follow-up procedure and does not mean you have cancer.

Common Symptoms / Concerns for Colposcopy

Abnormal result from a cervical screening (smear) test
Unusual bleeding between periods
Bleeding after sex
Unusual or increased vaginal discharge
Persistent pelvic pain or discomfort
Bleeding after menopause
Visible changes or sores on the cervix noticed by a doctor
Unexplained lower abdominal pain

When to Seek Professional Care

Book an evaluation with a healthcare provider immediately if you experience or present with:

  • You received an abnormal cervical screening result and have not yet been referred for follow-up
  • Heavy or prolonged bleeding from the vagina that soaks more than one pad per hour
  • Severe pelvic or lower abdominal pain that does not go away
  • Foul-smelling vaginal discharge accompanied by fever
  • Bleeding after sex that happens repeatedly
  • Any bleeding from the vagina after menopause
  • You notice a lump, sore, or unusual growth around the cervix or vagina

What to Expect During Your Medical Consultation

During your appointment, the doctor will use a magnifying instrument to look closely at your cervix — the instrument does not enter your body. They may gently apply a mild liquid to the cervix to help highlight any areas that need attention. If anything unusual is seen, the doctor may take a very small tissue sample to be tested, which may cause a brief, mild discomfort.

Medical Divisions Vetted for Colposcopy

Our platform supports multiple clinical specialties capable of providing consultations for this visit type:

Related Conditions

Conditions commonly associated with Colposcopy consultations:

Sexually transmitted disease (STD)

Also known as: STD, sexually transmitted disease

Vaginal Discharge & STI

Sherika

Sherika Abdurahim

150

per visit

Prime: ₵135

Accra5(2)
Highly Rated♥ Loyal PatientsVirtual

I stay at Achimota Mile 7 , married with 2 kid, completed med school in 2020, currently working at ugmc at Obs and gynae

Next available — thu, Jul 23

Lilian

Lilian Micah-Bondzie

200

per visit

Prime: ₵180

TodayVirtual

•Member of Ghana College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists •Member of West Africa College of Obstetricians and Gynecologist

Next available — tue, Jul 21

Nana-K

Nana-K Osei

150

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Prime: ₵135

Accra4.42(24)
Today♥ Loyal PatientsVirtual

A Senior Specialist Obstetrician & Gynaecologist with a passion for helping women achieve reproductive health and safely deliver their dream babies 👶🏽 Find me on tiktok @TheGynaepreneur!

Next available — tue, Jul 21

Josephine

Josephine Idowu

150

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Legon4.82(17)
Today♥ Loyal PatientsVirtual

I’m a medical doctor working in obstetrics and gynecology. My passion is women and all things related to women. Im married with a child for now and currently working at University of Ghana Medical Centre

Next available — tue, Jul 21

Frequently Asked Questions

Why has my doctor referred me for a colposcopy?

Your doctor has referred you because your cervical screening (smear) test showed some changes in the cells of your cervix. This does not mean you have cancer — most of the time, the changes are minor and can be treated easily. A colposcopy helps the doctor get a closer look to decide the best next step for you.

Is a colposcopy painful?

Most women find a colposcopy uncomfortable but not very painful — it feels similar to having a cervical screening test. You may feel a mild stinging or cramping if the doctor takes a small tissue sample. You can take a painkiller like paracetamol about an hour before your appointment to help with any discomfort.

What causes abnormal cervical cells that lead to a colposcopy?

The most common cause is a virus called Human Papillomavirus (HPV), which is passed on through sexual contact and is very common. Most people's bodies clear the virus on their own, but in some cases it can cause changes in the cervix over time. This is why regular cervical screening is so important for catching any changes early.

Can I use home remedies instead of going for a colposcopy?

No home remedy can replace a colposcopy if your doctor has referred you for one. Abnormal cervical cells need to be properly examined by a trained doctor to make sure they do not develop into something more serious. Please attend your appointment — catching problems early gives you the best chance of a good outcome.

How can I prevent abnormal cervical changes in the future?

The best protection is to attend regular cervical screening tests as recommended by your doctor or clinic. Getting the HPV vaccine — available for girls and young women — also greatly reduces the risk. Avoiding smoking and practising safe sex can also help protect your cervical health.

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