Colposcopy
What happens right after the procedure?
Cramping usually passes within minutes of the colposcopy. If she sits up too
quickly, a woman may feel lightheaded. Lying down for a few minutes after the
procedure prevents this. Any further cramping may be treated with an
over-the-counter pain
medication, such as acetaminophen or ibuprofen.
If a biopsy was also done, the biopsy samples are sent
to the laboratory to be examined under the microscope by the pathologist. The
healthcare provider discusses the pathologist's findings with the woman.
Abnormalities can range from mild cervical dysplasia, or slightly
abnormal changes in the cells examined, to cancer of the cervix.
Treatments and follow-up depend upon the exact diagnosis.
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