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If your cervical screening results show that abnormal cervical cells linked with human papillomavirus (HPV) were found, you will get a letter inviting you for a colposcopy.

You will be given your appointment time in your letter. You may have to wait 8 weeks or more.

The procedure will usually take place at a colposcopy unit at a local hospital or clinic.

Contact the hospital or clinic before your appointment if:

• you think you will be having your period at the time of your appointment as your appointment may need to be rescheduled
• you’re pregnant or think you may be pregnant – it is safe to have a colposcopy when pregnant, but you need to tell the hospital or clinic before you attend your appointment
• you’d like someone to be in the room with you (a chaperone), for example someone you know, a nurse or member of staff
• you need an interpreter

For the 24 hours before your colposcopy:

• do not have penetrative vaginal sex
• do not use any products that you place inside your vagina, such as tampons, vaginal creams or medicines

You might have some minor bleeding after the colposcopy, so it’s a good idea to bring a sanitary pad or panty liner to the appointment.

If you have a coil (IUD, or Mirena coil) it does not usually need to be taken out, but tell the person doing the colposcopy that you have one.