What Is Colposcopy?
How Is It Done?

What Is Colposcopy?

Colposcopy is the detailed examination of the cervix with the help of a special microscope. During this procedure, the cervix is stained with various solutions to make cellular changes visible.

If a risky area is detected, a biopsy is taken from that region and sent for pathological examination. Colposcopy is an important diagnostic method, especially in the assessment of HPV infection and abnormal smear results.

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Who Is Colposcopy Done For?

When high-risk HPV types such as HPV 16 and HPV 18 are detected
When the smear test result comes back abnormal (ASCUS, LSIL, HSIL, etc.)
If there is a complaint of bleeding after intercourse
If there is a visible lesion on the cervix during the gynaecological examination

How Is Colposcopy Done?

Colposcopy is a procedure that can be performed under outpatient (office) conditions. The patient is prepared in the gynaecological examination position and a speculum is placed in the vagina.

The cervix is magnified and examined with the help of a microscope. Then 5% acetic acid is applied. The areas with cellular change whiten and become prominent. Lugol's solution is then applied.

If a risky area is seen, a biopsy is taken. Because the cervix is insensitive to needle pricks and cutting, the biopsy procedure is usually not painful.

Is Colposcopy Painful?

The colposcopy procedure is not painful. If a biopsy is taken, there may be mild pelvic pain, but this pain is usually short-lived. In most patients, anaesthesia is not needed.

In patients who have a fear of the gynaecological examination, the procedure can also be done under general anaesthesia.

When Do Colposcopy Results Come Out?

If no biopsy was taken, the result is assessed at the same time. However, if a biopsy was taken, the pathology result usually comes out within 1 week.

After the results come out, our patients are called personally by the doctor and given detailed information.

What Happens After Colposcopy?

Normal result: A check-up with an HPV test after 1 year is recommended.
CIN 1: It is usually followed up, with a check-up after 1 year.
CIN 2–3: A LEEP procedure is recommended.
Carcinoma in situ / invasive cancer: The patient is referred to a Gynecologic Oncology specialist.

Colposcopy Prices

Colposcopy prices may vary depending on whether a biopsy is taken and whether general anaesthesia is required. In accordance with health regulations, we are unable to share price information on our website.

At our SAGA Clinic, colposcopy and colposcopic biopsy procedures are performed by Asst. Prof. Eser Ağar, MD with a digital microscope.

Dr. Eser Agar – Tirana, Albania

You can contact us for detailed information about colposcopy and to make an appointment.

📞 Phone: +355 69 836 15 65
📱 WhatsApp: +355 69 456 44 67

Frequently Asked Questions

Is colposcopy painful?

The colposcopy procedure is usually not painful. If a biopsy is taken, there may be mild pelvic pain, but in most patients it does not require anaesthesia.

When do colposcopy results come out?

If no biopsy was taken, the assessment is made at the same time. If a biopsy was taken, the pathology result usually comes out within 1 week.

Who is colposcopy done for?

Colposcopy is done for patients in whom high-risk HPV types are detected, whose smear test is abnormal, who have a complaint of bleeding after intercourse or in whom a suspicious lesion is seen on the cervix.

What is done if CIN 2 or CIN 3 is found after colposcopy?

If CIN 2 or CIN 3 is detected, a LEEP procedure is usually applied. In the case of suspected cancer, the patient is referred to a gynecologic oncology specialist.

Medically reviewed: Asst. Prof. Eser Ağar, MD — 14.09.2026

What Is Colposcopy? How Is It Done?