Colposcopy in York

FAQS

• Is it safe to have a colposcopy during pregnancy?

  Yes. It's important to still attend if you're pregnant, so your cervix can be assessed. If high-grade changes are found, these are usually monitored rather than treated until after you've given birth, since there's no evidence they get worse during pregnancy.

• What does an abnormal result mean?

  An abnormal result means cell changes were found, called CIN or CGIN. It's not cancer, though there's a risk the cells could become cancerous if left untreated. Depending on the grade, you might be offered monitoring, a follow-up colposcopy, or treatment to remove the cells.

• Will there be a trainee in the room?

  Possibly, if you're seen at a teaching hospital. You'll be introduced to everyone in the room beforehand, and you can ask questions or raise any concerns about this at your appointment.

• Can colposcopy check anything other than my cervix?

  Yes. As well as your cervix, a colposcopy can be used to check your vagina and vulva if there are concerns about those areas, such as a suspicious lesion.

• How common is an abnormal screening result?

  Around 1 in 10 cervical screening tests come back abnormal. This is fairly common, and most people referred for a colposcopy do not have cervical cancer.