What is it used for?
A colposcopy is most often used to find abnormal cells in the cervix, vagina, or vulva. It may also be used to:
Check for genital warts, which may be a sign of an HPV (human papillomavirus) infection. Having HPV may put you at higher risk for developing cervical, vaginal, or vulvar cancer.
Look for noncancerous growths called polyps
Check for irritation or inflammation of the cervix
If you've already been diagnosed and treated for HPV, the test may be used to monitor cell changes in the cervix. Sometimes abnormal cells return after treatment.
