Colposcopy
Internet URL
http://familydoctor.org/handouts/082.html 
Sponsoring Agency
American Academy of Family Physicians
Description
A colposcopy is a way your doctor can examine your genitals, vagina and cervix closely. A colposcope is an instrument that shines a light on the cervix and magnifies the view for your doctor. At the beginning of the exam, you lie back and place your feet in the stirrups as you would for a Pap smear. Your doctor inserts a speculum into your vagina and opens it slightly so he or she can see your cervix. Then your doctor applies a vinegar solution to the cervix and vagina with a cotton ball or swab. The vinegar makes abnormal tissue turn white so your doctor can identify areas that may need further evaluation.