A colposcopy is a a of looking at the cervix through a special magnifying device called a colposcope. It shines a light onto the vagina and onto the cervix. During colposcopy, your provider may see abnormal areas. A biopsy of these areas may be done. During the biopsy, a small piece of abnormal tissue is removed from the cervix.
A colposcopy allows your provider to examine your cervix, vagina, or vulvar skin with magnification so that areas of abnormal cell growth can be identified. The purpose of the biopsy is to remove a small piece of tissue for microscopic examination by a pathologist. A biopsy is the most reliable way to obtain accurate evaluation of abnormal tissue.
Infection and bleeding are the primary risks with this procedure, through both are highly uncommon. During the procedure you may feel cramping or have some minor discomfort. You may also experience light bleeding or spotting a few days after the biopsy.