A colposcopy is a test that lets a doctor look closely at the cervix to check the appearance of the delicate mucosa covering the cervix and to search for abnormal cells.

This does often include testing for cancer cells and colposcopies are most often done when a woman has had one or more abnormal smear tests, especially if she has other symptoms such as bleeding.

But there are other reasons for doing a colposcopy and other diseases that it can reveal. These include bacterial and viral infections, and also a condition that results from hormonal changes, especially among women on the contraceptive pill (these hormonal changes make the cells that normally cover the inside of the womb spread out on to the cervix where they're more likely to bleed).

So don't panic. Even if cancerous cells are found, they're often very early cancers or 'precancer' cells (known as dysplasia) and many can be treated simply, sometimes during the colposcopy itself.

Rather like a smear test

To carry out a colposcopy the woman sits in a specially designed reclining chair with her feet in stirrups (similar to when you go for a smear test). The doctor then places a special microscope (like binoculars) at the entrance to the vagina (not inside) to view the cervix.

The cells on the cervix may be given a wash with a solution, such as weak vinegar, because this helps to show up abnormal cells. The doctor may take a repeat smear test or small samples of cells in any area that doesn't look right.

Although it may be uncomfortable, it shouldn't be very painful. It can seem undignified, but remember that for the doctor it's all part of their routine work and nothing to be embarrassed about.

Sometimes, especially if a biopsy is taken, you may feel pinching or mild abdominal cramps, but a local anaesthetic may be given to prevent this.

After the test you may have a slight vaginal discharge for a couple of days, which should be dark brown or black. You shouldn't see fresh blood.

You'll be called back to discuss the results and any further treatment.

Treatments during colposcopy

Sometimes the doctor may want to give some treatment to areas of the cervix that don't look right, often at the time of the colposcopy. You should be able to discuss these before they're done. They include:

• Cryotherapy - a cooling probe to freeze and destroy cells
• Laser treatments - vaporise cells
• Loop cautery - uses an electrical current to destroy abnormal cells
• Cone biopsy - a cone-shape piece of tissue is removed from the cervix (usually done at a later appointment)

This article was last medically reviewed by Dr Trisha Macnair in December 2007