Colposcopy

Getting abnormal Pap smear results can feel overwhelming, but a colposcopy helps provide the answers you need about your cervical health. At Yunella Women’s Health in the Mid City West area of Los Angeles, board-certified OB/GYN David Kim, MD, PhD, uses this quick, in-office procedure to check your cervix for precancerous or cancerous cells. Early detection through colposcopy gives you the best chance for successful treatment and peace of mind about your health. Call today or book an appointment online to schedule your colposcopy.

What is a colposcopy? 

During a colposcopy, Dr. Kim uses a special magnifying instrument called a colposcope to examine your cervix, vagina, and vulva in detail. The colposcope stays outside your body while providing a clear, enlarged view that reveals changes not visible during a regular exam. 

Dr. Kim may apply special solutions to highlight areas that look different from normal tissue, making it easier to identify any changes that need further evaluation or treatment.

Why might I need a colposcopy? 

Dr. Kim recommends a colposcopy when he needs a closer look at your cervical health. Common reasons include:

• Abnormal Pap smear results
• Positive human papillomavirus (HPV) test
• Unusual changes noticed during a routine pelvic exam
• Bleeding between periods or after intercourse
• Visible abnormalities on your cervix

The procedure helps Dr. Kim determine whether cell changes are harmless, infection-related, or potentially more serious, giving you the information needed for the best possible care.

What happens during my colposcopy appointment? 

Your appointment takes place atYunella Women’s Health and usually lasts about 15-20 minutes. You lie back on the exam table just like for a Pap smear, with your feet in stirrups. Dr. Kim inserts a speculum to gently open your vagina so he can see your cervix clearly.

He positions the colposcope outside your body and looks through it while examining your cervix. If he sees areas that need closer evaluation, he may take small tissue samples called biopsies. You might feel some cramping or pressure during a biopsy, but the discomfort subsides quickly.

Most women can drive themselves home and return to their usual activities right after the procedure.

What should you expect after a colposcopy? 

If Dr. Kim doesn’t take any biopsies, he can often share preliminary findings with you quickly. Biopsy results can take 1-2 weeks.

Normal results mean you can return to routine Pap smear screening, though Dr. Kim might recommend more frequent checkups for a while. If the results show abnormal cells, he discusses your options, which may include monitoring with regular exams or procedures to remove the unusual tissue.

Abnormal test results need proper evaluation to protect your health. Schedule your colposcopy at Yunella Women’s Health today by calling the office or booking online to get the answers and care you deserve.