Number 1 solution for timely recognition of precancerous changes in the reproductive area
Taking care of your own health is a priority that can never be overemphasized. If we take into account the health of every woman, it is of great importance to regularly go to the gynecologist for check-ups and diagnostics, regardless of the age and life circumstances in which the woman is.
By going for examinations in a timely manner, potential abnormalities in the work and function of the reproductive system can be recognized, but also warned of conditions that could contribute to the development of problems in this area.
At the Lohuis Filipović Polyclinic, we conduct a series of gynecological examinations that include thorough diagnostics, detailed analysis and sophisticated solutions that ensure optimal health and function for your reproductive system.
One of such examinations is colposcopy, a medical procedure that allows us to examine the cervix, vagina and vulva in detail using a specially designed microscope, the so-called colposcope.
The examination is simple and painless, and in turn, it provides an accurate diagnosis about the health of your reproductive system.
Colposcopy is a diagnostic procedure used to examine the cervix and cervix, vagina, and vulva. In this procedure, a colposcope is used, an instrument that allows detailed observation of vaginal tissue.
Colposcopy is often used to detect changes in the cervix that may indicate the presence of abnormal cells or other pathological processes such as infections or lesions that are associated with the HPV virus.
This procedure is performed as part of a routine gynecological examination or as a preventive examination after a Pap test that shows certain abnormalities in the tissue.
Colposcopy is an extremely important procedure for conducting a gynecological examination, especially in detecting precancerous changes in the cervix, carcinoma and genital warts.
If the results of the Pap test show deviations, it is necessary to perform this examination for further finding and diagnosis of problems. In case of suspicious abnormalities that are identified during colposcopy, a tissue sample (biopsy) should be taken for a more detailed analysis.
By examining the sample, the doctor will make a final diagnosis, which will serve as the basis for a further treatment plan.
Colposcopy, in addition to diagnosing changes in the neck and cervix, is also used to identify the following complaints:
In order for the examination to pass without potential complications, it is necessary to adhere to certain guidelines:
By following these guidelines, the examination can be performed without unwanted side effects, with maximum precision and reliability of the findings that will later be used to conduct regular diagnostics and treat potential problems in the area of the reproductive system.
Colposcopy is a safe and non-invasive procedure, and usually takes between 10 and 20 minutes. The gynecology specialist begins the colposcopy procedure by using a speculum for better access to the cervix, and then places the colposcope for a precise examination.
When you arrive at the polyclinic, our staff will refer you to the office to prepare for the procedure. You will be handed disposable clothing that you will wear during the procedure.
It should be noted that it is necessary to empty the bladder before the examination in order to be as relaxed as possible during the examination, and so that the doctor gets a better insight into the procedure.
Once you are comfortably seated in a typical gynecological position, the specialist can begin the examination.
Colposcopy examination can be divided into three main procedures:
After the colposcope is placed and the cervix is examined, a solution of acetic acid is first applied to it. It should be noted that the procedure is not unpleasant for the patient.
In the areas where the tissue is irregular, this solution changes the color of the cells and makes them lighter (the so-called “white epithelium”). These areas are called “aceto-whitening” and they often indicate potential problems.
Important changes in the tissue, such as genital warts or cancer, provoke the appearance of more intense white areas with clear boundaries towards healthy tissue. By using Schiller’s solution, the superficial cells bind iodine from the solution and become darker, which is called an iodine-positive reaction.
If the reaction is iodine-positive, there are probably no serious tissue problems. Different combinations of these reactions help assess cervical health. Abnormal tissue is usually white and does not respond to iodine, which is why they are characterized as iodine-negative changes.
Extended colposcopy uses special chemical agents, i.e. color, to help the gynecologist see the small blood vessels inside the tissues.
Blue or green filters improve the examination and allow easier recognition of abnormal capillaries, most often in “aceto-white” areas.
Normal capillaries are usually thin and flat, while problematic capillaries are most often of different diameters, shapes and irregular branching.
If the specialist identifies suspicious areas during the examination of the tissue, he can do a biopsy, i.e. take a small tissue sample for further analysis.
If the abnormal tissue is smaller, and if it is only in one place, the doctor uses a sharp biopsy instrument and removes a small piece of tissue.
However, if there are several suspicious areas, multiple biopsies should be performed in order to take into account all the possibilities that would warn of the development of potential problems and the need for a timely reaction.
During a cervical biopsy, endocervical excochleation or endocervical curettage can also be performed, if necessary, a procedure by which a tissue sample is taken from a cervical canal that is not visible to the eye during examination.
Before the biopsy itself, a local anesthetic is used to minimize discomfort as much as possible. Depending on the type of biopsy, slight pain, pressure or cramps are possible, which disappear very quickly after the procedure.
If there was no need to perform a biopsy during the colposcopy, you are allowed to leave the office without specific guidelines. In other words, no restrictions are required after the procedure.
If a biopsy was necessary, it is necessary to avoid wearing tampons for the next week, as well as participating in sexual intercourse.
We recommend wearing pads because of blood or dark discharge, which is normal to expect in the coming days after the examination.
If you notice the following problems, you should contact your doctor as soon as possible:
These problems may be the result of complications arising during the examination. By coming back to the clinic, we can get a more detailed insight into adverse events, and provide you with care that will eliminate some of these problems.
Colposcopy is one of the basic procedures for the timely detection of problems in the reproductive system, so regular visits to this type of examination are crucial for the health of every woman.
Our team of gynecologists uses the latest technology to thoroughly examine the tissues of the neck and cervix, vagina, and other vaginal areas in a completely painless and non-invasive way.
Thanks to color filters, modern microscopes and high expertise of medical staff, it is possible to detect even the smallest abnormalities, the recognition of which can greatly help in the treatment and prevention of more serious problems.
Don’t let the health of your reproductive system fall into the background – Make an appointment by calling +3851 2444 646 or fill out our online form. Our team will respond to you as soon as possible, with more detailed information about the examination, as well as the price of colposcopy.
The main goal of LF Polyclinic is to improve the quality of life and health of our clients by providing them with top-notch healthcare services.
