In-Office Colposcopy and Treatment
A Colposcopy is an examination of your cervix (the neck of the womb) using an instrument called a colposcope. A colposcope is like a big magnifying glass with a light attached.
You may need to have a colposcopy if you have had an abnormal cervical smear test result, or if you have symptoms of cervical cancer. A colposcopy allows your doctor to look at any abnormalities in more detail.
An abnormal cervical smear test result usually means that small changes have been found in your cervix. These changes are sometimes referred to as dyskaryosis or dysplasia. Changes in your cervix are also called cervical intraepithelial neoplasia (CIN). CIN isn't cervical cancer but an early warning stage. There are three grades of CIN, depending on how deep into the lining of your cervix it penetrates:
- Mild changes to your cells
- Moderate changes
- Severe changes - this is sometimes referred to as carcinoma-in-situ (CIS)
A cervical smear test can show whether CIN is present but it can't always show the grade. A colposcopy is used to look more closely at the abnormal cells so that your doctor can determine the grade of CIN and therefore decide what type of treatment is best for you.
To learn more about Colposcopy and Treatment options or to schedule an appointment call us at (610) 692-3434.
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