Abnormal Pap Smear and Colposcopy

PAP smears are designed as a screening test for cervical pre-cancerous conditions. It does not pick up uterine or ovarian cancers. As it is a screening test, it indicates that there may be an abnormality, but often a colposcopy is required to confirm the site and nature of the abnormality. A colposcopy is similar to having a PAP smear performed, but requires additional time during the examination, as the cervix is required to be examined using a colposcope/microscope. During this examination, acetic acid (vinegar) and/or Iodine solution is used to stain the cervix to indicate the areas of abnormality. If an abnormality is detected, a biopsy may be required. A biopsy does cause a slight discomfort, but is well tolerated by most patients. In less than 2% of the time, a biopsy of the cervix may cause a vaso-vagal reaction (feeling faint, nausea and light headedness).