Colposcopy

[Lynzjam]

So my recent cervical test showed there had been some changes. I'll be sent an appointment for a Colposcopy within next eight weeks.

Can anyone share their experiences with me?

Feel cheeky bumping, but here goes...

I had to have a colposcopy just after DS1 was born, so nearly 8 years ago. As I recall, it was a lot like a smear test, but with proper stirrups to rest your feet in, so marginally more comfy. The sensations were a lot like a smear, but the whole examination lasted a bit longer, and the biopsy stung a bit. I just tried my best to relax and think calm thoughts, and it was essentially okay. Afterwards, I recall some crampy pain, and feeling rather bloated, but that went after a couple of hours.

Thank you both for sharing your experiences!

I had DD six months ago so wondered if the changes were related to that.

Do they tell you why your cells might have changed?

Hi
You should be sent more information about colposcopy with your appointment. There should have been a NHS CSP leaflet with explaining your abnormal results enclosed with your result letter.
For further information, I suggest having a look at the FAQ section of the NHS CSP official website and also the colposcopists' bsccp.org.uk/index.asp?PageID=30 website which has info about colposcopy, abnormal results, investigation and treatment.
If you do a search on this section of the forum then you'll also find a few threads discussing colposcopy and treatment.

I have had three colposcopies. For the first, I was given antibiotics and pain relief to take beforehand. As a result, I worried more and ended up with thrush. For the next two I was given nothing, but (having had experience) took painkillers 30 minutes before my appointment.

As Skiboo has said the procedure is like a slightly less pleasant smear test. I would recomment taking pain relief beforehand and clearing the rest of your day (if you can), to go home and have tea and a bit of a lie down. If you can get a lift or taxi.

I would also like to add that nothing sinister was discovered and colposcopy is recommended when there is a change of cells. This can be down to childbirth or change in sexual partner and need not be worrying. If you are worried, be aware that this test will show up any problems, which in most cases can be sorted and that the fact that you are being monitored is a really good thing.