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Colposcopy Specialist

Arizona Women's Health Partners

OB-GYNs located in Mesa, AZ

A colposcopy is a procedure used to examine the patient’s cervix closely for signs of disease. Thomas Bickley, DO, and Eericca Bickley, DO, of Arizona Women’s Health Partners offer colposcopy services to patients throughout Mesa, AZ and serving Gilbert, AZ. Patients who are interested in a colposcopy should contact Arizona Women’s Health Partners to schedule a consultation.

Colposcopy Q&A

What is a colposcopy?

A colposcopy is a minimally invasive procedure that allows the doctor to examine the cervix, vulva, and vagina closely.

What is the purpose of a colposcopy?

The purpose of a colposcopy is to look for signs of conditions that may require treatment. Dr. Thomas or Dr. Eericca may recommend a colposcopy after a patient has an abnormal pap smear. They may also recommend this procedure if they discovered any abnormalities during the patient’s most recent pelvic exam. A colposcopy may allow the doctor to diagnose several conditions, including:

  • Cancer
  • Precancerous cells
  • Inflammation of the cervix
  • Genital warts

What happens during a colposcopy?

Dr. Thomas or Dr. Eericca will usually be able to perform the colposcopy in the office. During the procedure, the patient lies on the exam table with her feet in stirrups. The doctor uses a speculum to hold the vagina open during the procedure. After inserting the speculum, the doctor will use a colposcope to examine the:

  • Cervix
  • Vulva
  • Vagina

They may also use a special solution to highlight any abnormal areas. Most colposcopies take 10-20 minutes to complete. If the doctor notices any areas of abnormality during the exam, they may perform a biopsy to investigate the issue further. The purpose of the biopsy is to collect a small sample of tissue for analysis.

Is it painful?

Patients may feel slightly uncomfortable during the colposcopy because of their position, as well as mild pressure from the speculum. Some patients also report feeling a mild burning or tingling sensation because of the solution applied during the exam. However, the procedure isn’t typically painful.

If the doctor performs a biopsy during the procedure, patients may feel additional discomfort. Cervical biopsies usually cause some pressure and cramping, while vaginal biopsies may not cause much pain at all. However, if the doctor is taking a biopsy from an especially sensitive area of the vagina, the patient may need a local anesthetic.

What do the results mean?

If Dr. Thomas or Dr. Eericca doesn’t see any abnormalities during the colposcopy, no further testing may be required. However, if the doctor notices abnormalities, they will likely recommend further investigation. If the doctor performs a biopsy during the exam, patients can expect to receive more information about results after the tissue is analyzed.

Insurance

*We accept the majority of health insurance plans. Please call our office if you do not see yours listed or have any other questions. Please note to check with your insurance or call the office to make certain that we are on your specific insurance plan as they are constantly changing.*

Aetna
Altius (Coventry Health Care)
Anthem Blue Cross Blue Shield
Arizona Foundation for Medical Care
Banner Health
Blue Cross Blue Shield
Blue Cross Blue Shield of Arizona
Care1st
Cigna
Deseret Mutual
Guardian
Health Choice Arizona
Health Net
Humana
Mercy Care
United Healthcare