Homerton: Colposcopy

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FAQs

Colposcopy

Colposcopy is a detailed examination of the cervix using a special microscope called a colposcope. It is required as part of the NHS Cervical Screening Program to investigate women who have had abnormal cervical smears and to help decide if treatment is needed.

The NHS cervical screening program has reduced the risk of women developing cervical cancer significantly. It is known that women who have cervical cancer will have had abnormal cells on the cervix for many years before the cancer develops. The cervical screening program detects these abnormal cells and allows further investigation and treatment.

Most women who have an abnormal smear will not develop cervical cancer, and the colposcopic examination helps to identify the women who are at high risk and arrange for them to be treated before the abnormality becomes serious.

For further information please visit the following websites:

The British Society for Colposcopy and Cervical Cytology

NHS Cervical Screening Program

Opening times

Monday to Friday, 9am to 5pm

By appointment only.

Making an appointment

The doctor or nurse who did your smear will be able to refer you to our unit. You will not be able to refer yourself. Appointments are available via Choose and Book.

Why have I been referred for colposcopy?
You have been referred for a colposcopy because you have recently attended your GP or clinic and you either have an abnormal smear or there’s another reason for further investigation.

How long would I have to wait to receive an appointment for colposcopy?
Once we have received the colposcopy referral from your GP or clinic, you should receive details of your appointment within three to five days.

Will I get an appointment ASAP?
Your referral details are seen by a doctor who will then decide how soon you need an appointment, depending on the degree of abnormality and other factors in your medical history.

For urgent cases you will be seen within two weeks; ‘soon’ cases within two to four weeks; and routine cases within four and six weeks.

If you have any queries about being referred to the colposcopy unit please contact the nurses office on 020 8510 5039.