Abnormal cervical screening
Colposcopy is often recommended when a Pap smear or other cervical screening result shows abnormal changes that need closer examination.
CERVICAL HEALTH · KINGSTON, JAMAICA
Colposcopy in Kingston, Jamaica
A colposcopy gives your gynaecologist a closer look at the cervix when cervical screening or other findings need further assessment. If you have been told that you need one, understanding what happens next can make the experience feel much less uncertain.
01
Closer Look
A colposcope magnifies the cervix so abnormal areas
can be examined more closely.
02
Often After Screening
Colposcopy is commonly recommended after abnormal
cervical screening findings.
03
Biopsy If Needed
A small tissue sample may be taken if an area needs
further examination.
04
Not a Cancer Diagnosis
Being referred for colposcopy does not mean that you
have cervical cancer.
EXPLORE THIS GUIDE
On this page
A CLOSER LOOK
What is a colposcopy?
Colposcopy is a detailed examination of the cervix, and when appropriate the vagina or vulva, using a specialised magnifying instrument called a colposcope.
The colposcope stays outside the body. A speculum is used to gently hold the vaginal walls apart so the cervix can be viewed clearly.
Special solutions may be applied to the cervix to make areas of abnormal tissue easier to identify. If an area looks unusual, a small biopsy may be taken for laboratory examination.
WHY COLPOSCOPY?
Your screening result is a starting point, not the whole story.
A colposcopy allows a closer assessment when your cervical screening results or other findings suggest that more information is needed.
HPV-related findings
Certain high-risk HPV findings can lead to a recommendation for colposcopy, depending on the screening result and clinical circumstances.
Other cervical concerns
Colposcopy may also be used to investigate an unusual-looking cervix or certain symptoms such as unexplained bleeding.
Being referred for a colposcopy does not mean you have cancer.
Abnormal cervical screening results are not the same thing as a cancer diagnosis. Colposcopy is used to look more closely at the cervix and determine whether abnormal changes are present and whether further monitoring or treatment is appropriate.
WHAT TO EXPECT
What happens during a colposcopy?
Knowing what happens can make the appointment feel much more manageable. The examination is similar in positioning to a cervical screening test.
Getting comfortable
You will lie on an examination couch with your legs supported. Your doctor will explain the examination and answer any questions before proceeding.
The speculum
A speculum is gently inserted into the vagina so that the cervix can be seen clearly.
Magnified examination
The colposcope is positioned outside the body and provides a magnified view of the cervix.
Biopsy if needed
If an area looks unusual, a small sample of tissue may be taken and sent for laboratory examination.
IF A BIOPSY IS NEEDED
What is a cervical biopsy?
During a colposcopy, your doctor may take a very small sample of tissue from an area that looks abnormal. This is called a cervical biopsy. The sample is sent to a laboratory so the cells can be examined more closely.
A biopsy does not automatically mean that cancer is suspected. It is a way of obtaining more information about the cells and determining whether further monitoring or treatment is needed.
BEFORE YOUR APPOINTMENT
A little preparation can make your visit easier.
Your clinic will give you specific instructions based on your circumstances. If you are unsure about anything, ask before your appointment.
Tell your doctor if...
- You think you may be pregnant.
- You are having your period around the time of your appointment.
- You have an IUD or other intrauterine device.
- You have concerns about discomfort or anxiety.
- You have questions about having a chaperone or support person.
Before the examination
Depending on the clinic's instructions, you may be asked to avoid vaginal sex, tampons, douching, or vaginal medications for a period before your appointment.
Follow the specific preparation instructions provided by your healthcare team, as they may differ depending on why your colposcopy has been recommended.
AFTER YOUR COLPOSCOPY
What happens after the examination?
Your next step depends on what is seen during the examination and whether a biopsy or other testing was performed.
No concerning changes
If no significant abnormality is identified, you may be advised about your future cervical screening and follow-up.
A biopsy was taken
If a biopsy was performed, the tissue is examined by a laboratory. Your healthcare provider will explain when and how you will receive the result.
Further treatment
If significant abnormal cells are identified, you may be offered further treatment or referred for the appropriate next step.
CERVICAL HEALTH WITH COMPASSION
When your results leave you with questions, you deserve clear answers.
MBBS · DM · MPH · MSCP · FACOG
Dr. Astrid Batchelor is an Obstetrician and Gynaecologist dedicated to providing thoughtful, evidence-based care for women across Jamaica.
Whether you have been referred after an abnormal Pap smear, an HPV-related finding, or another cervical concern, a consultation can help you understand what your result means and what may happen next.
KINGSTON, JAMAICA
Looking for colposcopy in Kingston?
If you have received an abnormal Pap smear or cervical screening result, been told that you have HPV-related cervical changes, or have another cervical concern that needs further assessment, a gynaecological consultation can help you understand your options.
COMMON QUESTIONS
Colposcopy questions, answered.
What is a colposcopy?
A colposcopy is a detailed examination of the cervix
using a magnifying instrument called a colposcope.
The procedure allows a doctor to identify areas of
abnormal tissue that may not be visible to the naked eye.
Why would I need a colposcopy?
Colposcopy is commonly recommended after abnormal
cervical screening results, including certain
HPV-related findings. It can also be used to
investigate certain cervical symptoms or an
unusual-looking cervix.
Does needing a colposcopy mean I have cancer?
No. Being referred for a colposcopy does not mean
that you have cervical cancer. The purpose of the
examination is to look more closely at the cervix
and determine whether abnormal changes are present.
Is colposcopy painful?
The experience varies from person to person.
A colposcopy involves a speculum examination similar
to cervical screening, and some women experience
pressure or discomfort. Tell your doctor if you are
uncomfortable so they can support you through the
examination.
How long does a colposcopy take?
The examination itself is usually relatively short,
although the total appointment time can vary
depending on your consultation, examination and
whether a biopsy or other procedure is required.
Will I need a biopsy during my colposcopy?
Not necessarily. If an area of the cervix looks
unusual, your doctor may recommend taking a small
biopsy so that the tissue can be examined in a
laboratory.
Can I have a colposcopy if I am pregnant?
Colposcopy can sometimes be performed during
pregnancy, but the approach may be different.
Tell your healthcare provider if you are pregnant
or think you may be pregnant before your appointment.
What happens if abnormal cells are found?
The next step depends on the type and severity of
the abnormality. Some cervical changes may simply
require monitoring, while others may require
treatment to remove abnormal cells and reduce the
risk of progression.
Where can I get a colposcopy in Kingston, Jamaica?
Dr. Astrid Batchelor provides obstetric and
gynaecological care in Kingston, Jamaica. If you
have an abnormal cervical screening result or
another cervical concern, you can request a
consultation to discuss the appropriate next step.
YOUR CERVICAL HEALTH MATTERS
Don't let an unexpected result leave you in the dark.
If you have been referred for a colposcopy or have questions about an abnormal cervical screening or HPV result, a consultation can help you understand what your result means and what your next step may be.