Colposcopy

If your doctor has recommended a colposcopy, you're probably worried. Let's address your biggest concern first: having a colposcopy does not mean you have cancer. Most women who need this procedure have minor cell changes that can be monitored or treated before they ever become cancer.

A colposcopy helps your doctor examine your cervix (the lower part of your uterus) more closely after abnormal Pap smear or HPV test results. Think of it as a more detailed look at what a regular Pap test found—like using a magnifying glass to see something more clearly.

What is colposcopy?

Colposcopy is a simple examination that lets your doctor see your cervix, vagina, and vulva more clearly than during a regular Pap smear. Your doctor uses a colposcope—a lighted magnifying instrument that stays outside your body—to examine these areas for abnormal cells or tissue changes.

Think of it as the next step after an abnormal screening test. Your Pap smear or HPV test flagged something that needs a closer look. Colposcopy provides that detailed view, helping your doctor determine whether cell changes need treatment, monitoring, or nothing at all.

The colposcope magnifies your cervix to a greater degree, allowing your doctor to spot abnormalities invisible to the naked eye. This detailed examination helps catch problems at their earliest, most treatable stage.

Why did your doctor recommend a colposcopy?

Your doctor suggests colposcopy when screening tests or symptoms indicate your cervix needs closer examination:

• Your Pap smear showed abnormal cells:

  • These cell changes are often minor and may resolve on their own, but your doctor needs a closer look to determine their significance.

• You tested positive for high-risk HPV:

  • Not all HPV infections cause problems, but high-risk types warrant detailed examination to check for any cell changes.

• You have unexplained symptoms:

  • Unusual vaginal bleeding, persistent pelvic pain, or visible cervical changes during examination require further investigation.

What does a colposcopy do for you?

Once recommended, colposcopy serves as your early warning system:

• Catches problems before they become cancer:

  • Precancerous cells take years to develop into cervical cancer. Colposcopy identifies these cells early, when simple treatments can remove them completely.

• Provides accurate diagnosis:

  • Your cervical screening test flagged something. Colposcopy shows exactly what's happening and how serious it is, eliminating guesswork about your treatment needs.

• Prevents unnecessary worry:

  • Many abnormal results turn out to be minor changes that resolve on their own. Colposcopy confirms this, giving you peace of mind instead of months of uncertainty.

• Monitors treatment effectiveness:

  • If you've had treatment for cervical cell changes, follow-up colposcopy verifies that the treatment worked and cells are returning to normal.

What happens during your colposcopy?

The procedure takes 15-30 minutes and happens in your doctor's office – no hospital visit needed. Here's what you'll experience:

Before your appointment

Don't have sex or use tampons for 24 hours before your appointment. Empty your bladder right before the procedure for comfort. Tell your doctor if you're pregnant, have allergies, or take any medications.

During the procedure

You'll lie back on the examination table with your feet in stirrups, exactly like a Pap smear test. Your doctor inserts a speculum to see your cervix clearly – you're already familiar with this part.

A colposcope (a microscope on a stand) remains outside your body at the end of the table. Nothing enters you except the speculum. The colposcope lets your doctor see your cervix magnified, like looking through binoculars.

Your doctor applies a vinegar solution (acetic acid) to your cervix with a cotton swab. This sounds strange, but it helps abnormal cells show up more clearly by turning them white. You might feel slight coolness from the liquid.

The examination itself is painless. Your doctor looks through the colposcope, examining your cervix for any abnormal patterns or areas that need closer attention.

If you need a biopsy

If your doctor sees areas that need testing, they'll take a small tissue sample (biopsy). Most women describe this as a brief pinch or cramping sensation lasting just a few seconds—similar to a sharp period cramp.

Your doctor may apply a solution to stop any light bleeding from the biopsy site. This is normal and expected.

After your colposcopy

• Immediately after:

  • You can leave right away. Most women drive themselves home. You might have light spotting or discharge for a few days – this is normal.

• What to avoid:

  • Skip tampons, sex, and douching for 3-7 days (your doctor will specify). Avoid heavy lifting and intense exercise for 24 hours.

• Warning signs to watch for:

  • Heavy bleeding (soaking through a pad in an hour), severe pain, fever, or foul-smelling discharge require immediate contact with your doctor.

What do your results mean?

• If no biopsy was taken: Your doctor will discuss what they saw and next steps before you leave. You might need follow-up Pap smears or another colposcopy in 6-12 months to monitor any changes in the cervical tissue.

• If a biopsy was taken: The results typically arrive within 1-2 weeks. Your doctor will contact you to discuss findings and any treatment needed. Most biopsy results show:

• Normal cells or minor changes that require monitoring only

• Precancerous cells that can be removed with a simple procedure

• Rarely, cancer detected early when treatment is most effective

Colposcopy at Thomson Medical

AtThomson Women’s Clinic, we understand that needing a colposcopy can feel worrying. Our obstetrician and gynaecologists prioritise your comfort and provide clear explanations at every step.

During your care, you can expect:

• Detailed consultation to discuss your abnormal test results and why colposcopy is needed

• Clear explanations at each step of the procedure so you know what's happening

• A comfortable, private environment designed for your dignity and ease

• Same-day results discussion if no biopsy is required

• Prompt biopsy results within 1-2 weeks with immediate discussion of next steps

• Comprehensive follow-up care including treatment procedures like LEEP or conization if needed

• Ongoing support from your care team throughout screening, treatment, and recovery

Prevention is equally important: We also offer a comprehensive 4-in-1 women's screening package that includes consultation, Pap smear, HPV test, and pelvic ultrasound—helping detect abnormalities early when treatment is most effective.

Colposcopy Cost in Singapore

The cost of colposcopy in Singapore varies depending on whether you choose public or private healthcare, whether a biopsy is needed, and if you're having it done as a day procedure or with admission. It can cost from SGD 1,200 to SGD 10,400.

The wide cost range depends on:

• Day surgery versus inpatient admission

• Whether biopsies are taken during the procedure

• Public hospital subsidized rates versus private hospital charges

• Your doctor's professional fees

• Type of anesthesia used (local versus general)

Additional costs to consider

Beyond the colposcopy procedure itself, budget for:

• Pre-procedure consultation with your gynecologist

• Laboratory analysis of biopsy samples

• Follow-up appointments to discuss results

• Additional Pap smears or HPV tests for monitoring

• Treatment procedures if precancerous cells are found

• Medications for infection prevention or pain management

How does insurance work for cervical cancer treatment?

Many patients are concerned about how much of their treatment will be covered by insurance. In Singapore, several schemes can help ease the financial burden.

• Doctor's fees:

  • Each specialist has their own panel of insurance providers and coverage arrangements

• Procedures and scans:

  • Some procedures like diagnostic imaging or certain surgical techniques may be subsidised by the Singapore government or covered under MediShield Life

• Overall treatment costs:

  • Your total out-of-pocket expenses will depend on how your insurance plan covers both the doctor's professional fees and the hospital/procedure costs

Fortunately, there are several programmes in Singapore that can help lower the total cost, such as MediSave, MediShield Life, and Integrated Shield Plans. Each of these offers different levels of coverage depending on your eligibility and insurance arrangements. 

This price was last updated in June 2025. Treatment costs may have changed since then. For current pricing, detailed insurance coverage information, and personalised financial guidance, contact our medical concierge team.

FAQ

Is colposcopy painful?

Colposcopy itself is not typically painful. However, some women may experience mild discomfort or a sensation of pressure when the colposcope is positioned. If a biopsy is taken, there might be a brief pinch or cramp. To minimise discomfort, it is essential to communicate with your doctor and inform them of any concerns.

Do I have cancer if I need a colposcopy?

Having a colposcopy does not necessarily mean you have cancer. It is typically recommended if you have an abnormal Pap smear result or if you have tested positive for high-risk strains of human papillomavirus (HPV), which is a common sexually transmitted infection that can lead to cervical cancer.

Do I need a colposcopy if I have HPV?

If you have HPV, particularly high-risk strains, a colposcopy will be needed to further evaluate the health of your cervix and determine if any abnormal cells are present. This does not automatically mean you have cancer, but rather it allows for a closer examination to detect any potential abnormalities early on, which can be crucial for effective treatment and management.

How long does a colposcopy take?

The duration of a colposcopy can vary, but on average, the procedure takes around 15 to 30 minutes. Factors influencing the time include the extent of examination needed, whether a biopsy is performed, and the patient's individual circumstances.

Are there any risks associated with colposcopy?

Colposcopy is generally considered a safe procedure. However, there is a slight risk of bleeding or infection if a biopsy is taken. In rare cases, some individuals may experience an allergic reaction to solutions used during the procedure. It is crucial to discuss any concerns or medical history with your doctor beforehand.

When is colposcopy recommended?

Colposcopy is often recommended when there are abnormal results from a Pap smear or HPV test. It is also used to investigate other symptoms such as unexplained vaginal bleeding, persistent pelvic pain, or unusual changes observed during a physical examination.

Can I drive myself home after a colposcopy?

In most cases, you should be able to drive yourself home after a colposcopy, as the procedure itself does not usually cause impairment. However, if you receive sedation or feel uncomfortable, it's advisable to arrange for someone to drive you home.

How often is colposcopy needed?

The frequency of colposcopy depends on individual health circumstances. It is typically recommended when there are abnormal cervical screening results. Your doctor will determine the appropriate timing for follow-up based on your specific situation.

Does colposcopy diagnose cancer? 

The information provided is intended for general guidance only and should not be considered medical advice. For personalised recommendations for your specific conditions, schedule a consultation with our O&G specialist at Thomson Women’s Clinic.