After Your Colposcopy: Next Steps

A colposcopy is commonly recommended as a follow-up test after an abnormal Pap smear. It’s important to schedule your Pap smears as regular screenings reduce cervical cancer rates by 80%. 

The colposcopy allows the OB/GYN team at Women’s Care of Beverly Hills to take a closer look at your cervix, vagina, or vulva using a special magnifying device called a colposcope.

Sometimes, your provider takes a biopsy during the procedure. For most patients, a colposcopy is simply part of an important process to keep tabs on cervical health. 

If you’re scheduled for a colposcopy or just underwent one, read on to learn what to expect and do next. 

Right after the procedure

It’s normal to experience mild cramping, light spotting, or dark discharge (especially if a biopsy was taken). This may last for a few days. Avoid using tampons or having sex for at least 48 hours (longer if your provider advises) so your cervix has time to heal.

If we don’t take a biopsy, your recovery should be very minimal. If a biopsy is taken, expect some discomfort, but it should be manageable with over-the-counter pain relievers like ibuprofen.

If you experience heavy bleeding, fever or chills, foul-smelling discharge, or severe pelvic pain, call our office right away. 

When to expect results

If we took a biopsy, it typically takes one to two weeks to receive the results. These results help determine your next steps. In many cases, abnormal cells don’t require immediate treatment but do require close monitoring.

Common biopsy results include:

Normal tissue

This means you need no further action beyond routine screenings.

Low-grade changes (CIN 1)

These often resolve on their own, and we may recommend a repeat Pap in 6-12 months.

High-grade changes (CIN 2 or CIN 3)

This result is more concerning and often needs treatment to remove the abnormal cells.

Waiting for results can be stressful, but remember, abnormal Pap results and colposcopies are common. Many women go through this process and remain healthy. Stay in close contact with our office, and don’t hesitate to ask questions or express concerns.

If you need further treatment

If your results show high-grade changes or persistent abnormalities, we may recommend a procedure such as a LEEP (Loop Electrosurgical Excision Procedure) or a cold knife cone biopsy. These procedures remove the affected tissue and help prevent cervical cancer from developing.

Our team at Women’s Care of Beverly Hills explains what each treatment entails, recovery time, and what to expect afterward.

Follow-up screenings and tests

After your colposcopy, we can discuss when to schedule your next Pap test or follow-up exam. Keeping up with these appointments is essential to maintaining your cervical health. 

We're here to support you through every step of your gynecological care. Whether you're awaiting results or preparing for the next part of your treatment plan, our team is here to answer your questions and guide you with compassion and expertise.

Call Women’s Care of Beverly Hills today or make an appointment online for any of your gynecological care needs.