Colposcopy
Colposcopy is an examination of the cervix to check for the pre cancerous change. Procedure usually takes place in the rooms and you will be asked to have a seat in a special couch which supports the legs.
Colposcope is a magnification instrument which examines the cervix from outside the vagina and it magnifies the cervix. Cervix is painted with weak acetic acid which causes the abnormal cells to turn white. Both iodine and acetic acid are used. The pattern will help decide if you have a low grade changes or high grade changes. We may remove a small tissue sample from abnormal looking area and a special solution will be applied to stop the bleeding from the biopsy area. After the biopsy, you may have minor amount of bleeding and vaginal discharge for a week. Avoid sex, tampons or bath for 2 weeks to allow the cervix to heal.
Treatment for Dysplasia
Treatment for dysplasia – if the colposcopy and biopsy indicate a high grade abnormality, you may be recommended to have treatment for removal of abnormal cells. Several methods of treatment are effective and the best treatment will depend upon the type and the severity of abnormal cells.
1. Wide loop excision also known as LLETZ – semicircular wire loop is used to remove the portion of cervix that contains the pre cancerous cells and abnormal cells are cut away and sent for examination.
2. Cone biopsy – a circular incision is made on the cervix and a cone of tissue containing abnormal tissue is removed along the whole of the length of the cervical canal and sent for examination.
3. Hysterectomy – is really used to treat the cervical dysplasia, however, it may be considered if other problems are present including prolapse of the uterus, fibroids or heavy menstrual bleeding.
Is it abnormal for bleeding to occur more than 12 months after cessation of last period? Any post menopausal bleeding is abnormal. Most common causes are thinning of the lining of the vagina and of the endometrium, endometrium polyps, cancers and hyperplasia. Main investigation would be to do a hysteroscopy D & C to rule out any abnormality.
For further information about Colposcopy, please contact Dr. Singla's office.