Expert Women’s Health Services at Medeor Hospital, Abu Dhabi
If your doctor has recommended a colposcopy, you may be feeling uncertain or anxious. At Medeor Hospital, Abu Dhabi, our women’s health specialists are here to guide you every step of the way—from understanding the procedure to receiving compassionate, expert care.
This comprehensive guide explains everything you need to know about a colposcopy—its purpose, when it’s needed, what to expect before, during, and after the procedure, and what it means for your overall reproductive health.
What is a Colposcopy
A colposcopy is a simple and effective outpatient procedure used to closely examine your cervix, vagina, and vulva using a magnifying device called a colposcope. This instrument provides an enlarged view of the area to help your doctor identify abnormal or suspicious changes that may not be visible during a regular pelvic exam.
Purpose of Colposcopy
At Medeor Hospital, colposcopy is used to:
- Investigate abnormal Pap smear results
- Detect precancerous changes in the cervix or vaginal tissues
- Monitor HPV-related cell changes
- Diagnose causes of unusual bleeding, pain, or discharge
Early detection through colposcopy can prevent the progression of cervical abnormalities into more serious conditions like cervical cancer.
Why You Need a Colposcopy
Your gynecologist may recommend a colposcopy if:
- Your Pap smear (cervical cancer screening) shows abnormal cells
- You have tested positive for high-risk strains of HPV
- You’re experiencing unexplained vaginal bleeding, pelvic pain, or discomfort during intercourse
- There are visible lesions on the cervix, vagina, or vulva
- You’re undergoing follow-up care after treatment for cervical dysplasia or other related conditions
At Medeor Hospital, our board-certified gynecologists ensure that you understand the reasons for the procedure and feel supported throughout the process.
The Colposcopy Procedure: What to Expect Before, During & After
Before the Colposcopy Procedure
To ensure accurate results, your doctor may advise you to:
- Avoid sexual activity, tampons, and vaginal medications for at least 24–48 hours beforehand
- Schedule the colposcopy when you’re not menstruating
- Inform your doctor if you’re pregnant or have any allergies (especially to iodine or latex)
During the Colposcopy Procedure
The procedure is performed in our outpatient clinic and takes about 15–30 minutes:
- You’ll lie on an exam table, similar to a routine Pap test.
- A speculum will be inserted to open the vaginal canal for a clear view of the cervix.
- A mild solution (usually acetic acid) is applied to highlight abnormal areas.
- The colposcope—a magnifying camera—remains outside your body while the doctor examines the tissue.
The procedure is generally painless, though you may feel mild discomfort or pressure.
What happens if a biopsy is needed
If your doctor notices any areas of concern during the colposcopy, a small tissue sample (biopsy) may be taken for further analysis in the lab. Types of biopsies include:
- Cervical biopsy
- Vaginal or vulvar biopsy, depending on the affected area
The biopsy may cause a brief pinching sensation or light cramping, but anesthesia is not typically required. You may also experience light spotting afterward.
When and how you’ll receive your results
Colposcopy and biopsy results are usually available within 7–10 days. At Medeor Hospital, our clinical team will contact you and schedule a follow-up consultation to explain the findings and discuss the next steps.
Results may include:
- Normal findings: No abnormal cells detected
- Mild dysplasia: Usually monitored with repeat screenings
- Moderate to severe dysplasia: May require treatment (e.g., LEEP, cryotherapy)
- Cancerous changes: Rare, but prompt treatment ensures the best outcomes
Your doctor will create a personalized care plan based on your results.
Aftercare and Recovery
If no biopsy is taken, you can resume normal activities immediately. If a biopsy was performed:
- Expect light bleeding or brown discharge for a few days
- Use pads instead of tampons and avoid intercourse for about 5–7 days
- You may feel mild cramping, which can be relieved with over-the-counter pain medication
If you experience heavy bleeding, fever, or foul-smelling discharge, contact your doctor promptly.
Colposcopy in the UAE: What to know
At Medeor Hospital, Abu Dhabi, we offer colposcopy services through our state-of-the-art Women’s Health Department, with internationally trained specialists and cutting-edge diagnostic tools.
Costs and Insurance
- Colposcopy costs in the UAE typically range from AED 500 to AED 1,500
- Most major insurance providers in the UAE cover this procedure, especially when prescribed following abnormal Pap results
- Our patient services team can assist you with insurance approvals and provide a transparent cost estimate before your appointment
We are committed to making women’s health services accessible and stress-free for all our patients.
Book Your Appointment Today
If you’ve been advised to undergo a colposcopy or are experiencing symptoms that concern you, don’t delay care. Early detection is key to prevention and treatment. Our expert gynecologists are here to support you with compassionate, confidential care every step of the way.
