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Colposcopy Specialist

Piedmont Preferred Women's Healthcare -  - OB-GYN

Piedmont Preferred Women's Healthcare

OB-GYN located in Henry County, Martinsville, VA & Rockingham County, Eden, NC

Dr. Makunda Abdul-Mbacke and the health care providers at Piedmont Preferred Women’s Healthcare offer colposcopy services to aid in biopsy collection when women from Martinsville-Henry county, Virginia, and Eden, North Carolina, have abnormal pap smear results. It’s not uncommon for results to be abnormal, and a colposcopy is an effective way for Dr. Abdul-Mbacke to collect additional information and samples for a more thorough diagnosis.

Colposcopy Q & A

What is a colposcopy?

A colposcopy is a gynecological procedure that allows Dr. Abdul-Mbacke to get a close and detailed view of a patient’s cervix. This procedure is often used when a patient has abnormal pap smear results and the doctor needs to take a very close look at the cervix. Colposcopy is also used to assist with biopsies to collect additional samples of cells after a pap smear returns abnormal results.

The procedure is performed with a colposcope, which is an instrument that looks like binoculars with a bright light mounted on them. The patient will rest on a treatment table with her feet in stirrups. Dr. Abdul-Mbacke will gently open the patient’s vagina with a speculum, just like during a pap smear, but will use the colposcope to look at the cervix.

What should I do to prepare for a colposcopy?

It’s best to have a colposcopy procedure when you don’t have your period. Some patients may want to take an over-the-counter pain reliever before the exam, but most women do not find it painful. Patients should avoid putting anything in their vaginas, such as medications, tampons, or douches for 24 hours before the procedure. It’s also recommended to avoid sexual intercourse for 24 hours prior.

What happens if I have abnormal results?

Treatment for abnormal results depends on the condition causing the abnormality. Some conditions are treated with cryotherapy to freeze and remove any abnormal cells. LEEP (loop electrosurgical excision procedure) is another method for removing abnormal cells, which involves using a thin wire loop that carries an electrical current.

In any case, Dr. Abdul-Mbacke will provide advice on how often the patient should return to her office for follow up exams.

How will I feel after a colposcopy?

Most patients feel fine after a colposcopy, but some may experience some temporary tenderness in the vagina. If a biopsy is performed at the same time, patients may experience some spotting or dark colored discharge. It’s recommended to avoid sexual activity for 3 days following a biopsy, but if one isn’t needed, patients can resume sexual activity as soon as they want.

Patients who have questions about colposcopy, pap smears, or causes of abnormal pap results should contact Dr. Abdul-Mbacke’s practice to make an appointment for consultation and exam.

Major Insurance Providers Accepted

At Piedmont Preferred Women's Healthcare, we accept most major insurance plans. Here is list of some of the plans we accept. Please note that we do accept self pay patients. Please contact our office if you do not see your insurance provider listed.

Aetna
Anthem Blue Cross Blue Shield
Anthem Healthkeeper
Cigna
Gateway Health
Medicare
OptimaHealth
United Healthcare
Virginia Premier Health Plan