HPV Support Group

Hi Bella! Ok, first thing, relax, don't stress out over it. Colposcopy is very useful in the treatment of HPV. I have had 2 done already. It is a direct viewing of the cervix through a special microscope allowing the doctor to observe the cervix in greater detail. The doctor will most likely clean the area with a mild vinegar solution, which causes abnormal areas to turn white. Tiny samples of tissues may be taken for examination. Sometimes ECC is done, (endocervical curretting) sampels are taken from the inside the cervical canal. I had this done. It hurts a bit, mild discomfort. Cramping can happen from the procedure. He also put TCA an acid solution on my cervix to treat the dysplasia to help it reverse. It is working for me. Overall, it depends are you level of dysplasia. If it is high grade they may suggest a LEEP biospy or cryotherapy it all depends. For those, they will give you a local anesthesia. Let me know if you require more information. Good luck, you will be fine.Stay on top of your appts and follow the gyn/ob orders. I will pray for you. xx Elena

Missy explained it so well. I just wanted to say hang in there - it's not that bad. Keep us posted,k. Take care! ~hugs~

I'm right there with you... I'm having my first colposcopy on Dec 10th!!
Good luck and I hope everything turns out well for you!

I am right there with you! I am having one in 2 days (Nov 29th, my Dad's b-day of all days), and I've been freaking out!
I hope things go as well is missy13 says. Good luck to you!

At what point during the HPV process does one have Colposcopy? Is it used only if abnormal cells are spotted? My doctor has not recommended this yet, but she wants to see me in 3 months (was just dx'd 2 weeks ago) to see how I am doing and then we go from there.

Yes, it is used to treat abnormal cells and lesions.
I was sent right away. It is routine here, when the PAP comes back abnormal and tests positive for HPV.

My doctor's office does this for ANYONE who has an abnormal pap, whether due to HPV or not. I got this 1 month (yesterday) after my doc saw genital warts, and 2 weeks after my pap came back abnormal.
It has to be done at a time in between periods etc.
I'm guessing if you don't have to have this there weren't any abnormal cells on your pap?

Hi Heart...colpscopy is recommended when your PAP is abnormal. I had mine done because they found external gential warts which was a concern to see if I had any internal and if it already affected my cervix which it did. I am glad I had it done , already twice and it has greatly helped my dysplasia to reversing it back to normal.