The Colposcopy Clinic is a separate program which operates out of the Bay Centre for Birth Control.  Our objective is to provide effective and timely diagnostic colposcopic exams to women who need them and who might otherwise have difficulty with access. 

Women are referred for colposcopy by their health-care provider if their regular Pap test screening shows some abnormalities.

What is colposcopy?
Colposcopy is a way of examining the cervix under magnification.

A speculum, the same instrument used during a Pap test, or vaginal exam, is inserted into the vagina to allow us to see the cervix.

A vinegar solution is applied to the cervix which causes abnormal cells to turn white. The application of the vinegar solution does not hurt. If abnormal cells  are seen then a sample (or biopsy) can be taken of the area. The biopsy is sent to a lab for testing and this allows us to determine the level of abnormality (e.g. if you have low grade or high grade dysplasia).

For more information on what to expect at your colposcopy appointment, please read our patient handout.

Referral
Women cannot self-refer for colposcopy. We take referrals from partnering providers or clinics.

Please note that we will see pregnant women for colposcopy on a case by case basis.

Treatment after colposcopy
Some women require treatment if their colposcopy shows severely abnormal cells. If this is the case, women will be referred to a gynaecologist. Most women who have colposcopy show milder abnormalities and will not require treatment, but will be followed up with a repeat colposcopy and/or pap test.

For more information on possible treatment options, please read our treatment handout.