A colposcopy biopsy is more accurately termed as a colposcopy-directed biopsy since it is a colposcope that is used in order to perform the biopsy. This is the term given to a microscope that is low-powered but helpful when it comes to viewing the patient's cervix and in detecting any kinds of abnormalities. A colposcopy and cervical biopsy is often used when a biopsy of the cervix is deemed necessary.
A colposcopy directed biopsy is a test usually advised following a Pap smear test which turns out to be positive. It is deemed necessary to look for and identify possible abnormalities. For instance, patterns in blood vessels that do not look regular could be identified. Thus, you would identify signs that the woman might have cancer or other problems such as cervical warts. While bleeding is to be often expected, heavy bleeding could signify a problem and your doctor should be informed about such a development.
For a colposcopy and biopsy, general guidelines for the period of 24 hours prior include refraining from intercourse, not inserting any kinds of products into one's vagina and refraining from douching. It might be more comfortable for the patient to use the bathroom before starting. If you would prefer it, talk to your health care provider about getting support by having a friend hold your hand through the procedure.
To conduct a colposcopy with biopsy, the patient is made to lie down, such that the feet are secured with the help of stirrups. This allows proper positioning of the pelvis in order to allow for medical examination. A speculum is then used so as to further allow examination of the patient's cervix and the area is gently swabbed. Such swabbing with the aid of a chemical solution means that mucus gets cleaned up and the abnormal areas are more easily detected.
The colposcope is placed only at the entrance instead of actually inside the vagina. In this manner the instrument does not have to actually even touch the patient but photographs can be taken and the area can be examined. For the colposcopy and cervical biopsy, tissues are removed from the specific areas that appear to be rater abnormal. There could be multiple samples thus obtained from the cervical and vaginal area via small biopsy forceps. In some cases, tissue from inside the woman's cervix is sampled.