A colposcopy is a diagnostic test to examine the vulva, vagina and cervix it is often indicated with an abnormal cervical screening test result but can also be indicated if you are having irregular bleeding or bleeding after intercourse. A colposcope is essential a special type of microscope that allows a gynaecologist to have a magnified view of the cervix to examine it for abnormal cells. These are detected after the application of different solutions to the cervix and is performed in conjunction with a speculum examination.
Early detection of abnormal cells on the cervix prevents the development of cervical cancer. As such it is important to have a colposcopy if indicated as it can be a lifesaving step.
Colposcopy is indicated if you have
Further surgical management will be required should the colposcopic biopsy returns an abnormal result
Commonly patients may need to undergo further surgical management of abnormal cells on the cervix. This is often referred to as a LEEP or a LLETZ procedure, (Large Loop Excision of the Transformation Zone). This is a surgical procedure that does require an anaesthetic and hospital admission, the outer cells of the cervix are removed using electrosurgery to prevent further development of abnormality. Patients recovery quickly from this procedure and will be discharged home the same day.
A colposcopy is often indicated if you have had an abnormal cervical screening test (formally known as a Pap Smear).
A gynaecologist who specialises in benign gynaecology. Any gynaecologist regularly performing colposcopy should be C-QuIP certified. This is a quality assurance competency held by the Royal Australian and New Zealand College of Obstetricians and Gynaecologists for practicing colposcopists.
You will have a speculum examination, similar to having a cervical screening test. A Colposcopy procedure can take between 10-15minutes. A range of substances / dyes will be placed on your cervix and examined using the colposcope. Any areas of concern are biopsied. No anaesthetic is required for a colposcopy.
A colposcopy can be uncomfortable but should not be described as painful. If you have concerns, speak to your gynaecologist ahead of time and they may recommend some simple analgesia prior to the procedure.
Medically indicated colposcopy is eligible for a medicare rebate. Should you require a colposcopy we recommend a GP referral so that you can claim your maximum entitlements under medicare. Please contact our rooms on 1300 330 279 to get the latest up to date costings for a consultation and colposcopy procedure.
Yes, a referral from a GP to a specialist gynaecologist will entitle you to the medicare rebates for your colposcopy. You can have a consultation without a referral, however you will not be able to claim a rebate if this is the case.
