A colposcopy is a diagnostic procedure used to examine the cervix, vagina, and vulva, often following an abnormal cervical screening test. During the procedure, a doctor uses a magnifying instrument and may take small tissue samples, or biopsies, for analysis. Understanding the recovery process and knowing the next steps is important for promoting healing.
Managing Physical Side Effects
It is normal to experience some physical side effects, particularly if a biopsy was performed during the colposcopy. Mild cramping, often described as feeling similar to menstrual pain, is a common occurrence immediately after the procedure and can last for a few hours or a day. Over-the-counter pain relievers, such as acetaminophen or ibuprofen, are typically sufficient to manage this discomfort.
Light vaginal spotting or bleeding is expected, especially if a tissue sample was taken. The bleeding should be lighter than a regular menstrual period and may persist for a few days up to a week. If Monsel’s paste was applied to control bleeding, you may notice a dark, brownish, or black discharge resembling coffee grounds; this is the coagulating agent leaving the body. Use sanitary pads or panty liners to manage discharge or spotting, as inserting anything into the vagina is restricted during this time.
Guidelines for Recovery and Activity
Following activity guidelines helps prevent infection and allows the biopsied area to heal completely. The primary restriction is pelvic rest, which prohibits sexual intercourse, douching, and the use of tampons or menstrual cups. This restriction is advised for about one to two weeks, but follow the exact timeline provided by your healthcare provider, as it can vary based on the procedure.
Inserting anything into the vagina can disrupt healing tissue and introduce bacteria, increasing infection risk. For this reason, some doctors recommend avoiding swimming and hot tubs for at least two weeks following a biopsy. While you can return to normal daily activities immediately, heavy lifting and strenuous exercise should be avoided for the first 24 to 48 hours. Taking a shower is fine, but avoid full baths until the discharge has stopped.
Recognizing Serious Complications
It is important to be aware of signs that could indicate a complication requiring immediate medical attention. Heavy bleeding is one warning sign, defined as soaking through more than one sanitary pad in an hour, which is much heavier than a normal period. Contact your doctor if you experience severe pain in your abdomen or pelvis that does not improve with over-the-counter pain medication.
Signs of a possible infection include a fever of 100.4°F or higher, chills, or a foul-smelling, thick, or yellowish vaginal discharge. These symptoms are distinct from the mild cramping and light discharge considered normal side effects. Report these signs promptly so that any potential infection can be treated.
What Happens After the Biopsy Results
Once the immediate physical recovery period is over, the focus shifts to clinical follow-up. The tissue sample is sent to a laboratory where a pathologist examines the cells. The time it takes to receive these results can vary, typically ranging from a few days to a couple of weeks, sometimes taking up to four weeks.
Your healthcare provider will contact you to explain the pathology report, detailing the nature of any cell changes, such as mild or high-grade dysplasia. If the results are normal, you will resume your routine cervical cancer screening schedule. If abnormal cells are found, the next steps may involve watchful waiting with repeat Pap tests, especially for mild changes, or scheduling a follow-up procedure to remove the abnormal cells. Your doctor will outline any necessary monitoring or treatment plan based on the specific findings.