Colposcopy
What is a colposcopy? A colposcopy is a test to examine the cervix. It’s a routine and painless procedure, usually done if you had a cervical screening test (smear test) detect abnormal cells. What happens during a colposcopy? During a colposcopy your Gynaecology Consultant will insert a speculum into your vagina. A microscope is then used to look at your cervix in greater detail. A biop
What it is
After a routine smear flagged abnormal cells or high-risk HPV, a colposcopy lets your consultant look directly at the cervix in detail, take small biopsies for the lab to examine, and — where appropriate — treat pre-cancerous changes in the same visit (Large Loop Excision of the Transformation Zone, LLETZ).
Symptoms and signs
- Abnormal cervical screening result (low-grade, high-grade or persistent HPV).
- Post-coital bleeding (bleeding after intercourse) needing assessment.
- Inter-menstrual bleeding or unusual vaginal discharge of concern.
- Follow-up after previous treatment for cervical changes.
- Visible cervical abnormality identified during another examination.
How we investigate
Detailed colposcopy by our BSCCP-accredited consultants using high-magnification examination with acetic acid and Lugol's iodine. Targeted biopsy where indicated, sent for histology with results typically back within 7–10 days and discussed with you by phone or follow-up consultation.
Treatment options at The Vesey
- Surveillance — many low-grade changes regress without treatment; structured follow-up colposcopy and smear at agreed intervals.
- LLETZ (Large Loop Excision of the Transformation Zone) — outpatient treatment under local anaesthetic for high-grade changes (CIN 2/3). Removes the abnormal area in a single 10-minute procedure.
- Cervical cone biopsy — under general anaesthetic for selected cases needing a larger excision.
- HPV vaccination counselling — discussion of vaccination as adjunctive prevention after treatment.
- Clear written results and follow-up plan — every patient leaves with a printed action plan and a copy of the consultant letter to their GP (with consent).
Frequently asked questions
Is colposcopy painful?
Colposcopy itself is not painful — it feels similar to a smear test. You may feel mild cramping during the procedure, particularly if a biopsy is taken, but most women tolerate it well with over-the-counter pain relief taken an hour beforehand.
What is the difference between a smear test and a colposcopy?
A smear test takes a sample of cells for laboratory analysis. A colposcopy is a detailed clinical examination of the cervix under magnification, allowing the doctor to see abnormal areas directly, take targeted biopsies, and in some cases treat the abnormality in the same appointment.
What happens if my colposcopy shows CIN 2 or CIN 3?
CIN 2 and CIN 3 (high-grade changes) are nearly always treated to prevent progression to cancer. The standard treatment is LLETZ — a 10-minute outpatient procedure under local anaesthetic. Treatment is very effective, with over 90% of patients clear on their first test-of-cure.
When can I have sex after LLETZ treatment?
You should avoid sex, tampons and swimming for 4 weeks after LLETZ to allow the cervix to heal and reduce the risk of infection. You can usually return to normal activities including work within 1–2 days of the procedure.
Private consultation at The Vesey
From £90 (Private GP) · Specialist from £260 · No GP referral required · Open 7 days 8am–8pm
Book an appointment
When to see a specialist
Book a private colposcopy if your NHS referral has a long wait and you want results within 1–2 weeks, if you have post-coital bleeding that has not been investigated, or if you want a second opinion after previous treatment.
Cost and pathway
Outpatient colposcopy (including consultation) £650. Biopsy histology from £180. LLETZ treatment under local anaesthetic from £950 all-inclusive. Same-day appointments often available; results within 7–10 days.
- Open 7 days including Sundays — 8am to 8pm, no weekend surcharge
- No GP referral required — book directly with our consultant gynaecology team
- Sutton Coldfield location — serving Birmingham, Walsall, Tamworth, Lichfield and the West Midlands
- CQC-regulated — rated 4.88/5 on Doctify from 700+ verified reviews
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Sutton Coldfield · Birmingham · Walsall · Tamworth · Lichfield · West Midlands · Open 7 days 8am–8pm
Open 7 days · 8am–8pm · 0121 387 3727