What is a colposcopy?

A colposcopy is a test to look at the opening of your womb (cervix) from your vagina. A coloscopy is done if you have an abnormal smear test, especially if you are high risk for human papillomavirus (HPV).

Why would I have a colposcopy?

You might have a coloscopy if:

• Your smear test shows abnormal cell changes
• You have had a previous HPV infection that hasn’t cleared
• You have multiple smear tests but no clear results
• Unexplained or abnormal bleeding

How do I get a colposcopy?

Although you can have a colposcopy privately or by the NHS, in most cases your first step is a visit to your GP. GPs or hospital doctors can refer you for a colposcopy. They will also want to check your signs and symptoms are so they can decide how urgently you need treatment.

You will be referred to a doctor who specialises in gynaecology (female reproductive system). They may have a consultation before or see you on the day, depending on your referral. The procedure can be undertaken in outpatients or on admission to hospital.

Before your operation

If your smear test shows abnormal cervical cells, you’ll be invited for a colposcopy. Your doctor will discuss the benefits and risks (e.g. bleeding, pain) before the procedure.

What happens on the day of the procedure?

For most colposcopies you will arrive, have your procedure and go home all on the same day – this may be in a clinic or day case area at your local hospital.

Your doctor will explain what will happen, pain relief options and answer any questions. You will be asked to sign a consent form.

The time of procedure can vary but usually 15-20 mins. During the procedure, a small metal tool (speculum) will gently open your vagina. A microscope with a light is then used to look at your cervix. A small tissue sample (biopsy) may be taken during this procedure.

If you find the procedure too painful or distress, you should let the clinical team know who will stop the procedure.

Types of treatment for abnormal cervical cells

If the doctor does find abnormal cells on your cervix, they may recommend removing part of it.

They may do this at the same time, or on a different day.

LLETZ (large loop excision of the transformation zone)

• This is when a small piece of tissue is removed using a heated loop of wire. This takes 15 minutes and the doctor injects local anaesthetic.

Cone biopsy

• If a large piece of tissue needs to be removed, they may suggest a cone biopsy. You will be asked to make a follow up appointment. You will need a general anaesthetic and may need to spend the night in hospital.

Recovery and what to expect after your colposcopy

After the procedure you will go back to the ward or waiting area. You can often go home straight away after your procedure.

What are the potential complications of a colposcopy?

All procedures carry a risk of complications. Your risks can increase the older you are, particularly if you have other health problems. Your surgeon will discuss any specific concerns with you before your operation.

Common – 1 in 100 people which is equivalent to one person on your street

• Period like pain for a couple of days after
• Bleeding or spotting

Rare – between 1 in 1,000 and 1 in 10,000 people which is equivalent to one person in a town.

• Heavy bleeding
• Developing an infection afterwards
• Hole (rupture) in your womb (uterus)

Contact the hospital where you had your operation if you develop complications.

How much does a colposcopy cost? 

Colposcopy is available free of charge through the NHS. Although you’ll have to pay, private healthcare may offer faster access or a broader selection of consultants.

Colposcopy is available through private medical insurance. Check with your insurer which hospital or consultant they will cover it.

You can also self-fund a colposcopy. Typically, an initial consultation with the surgeon will cost between £150 and £200. The cost of the operation itself will vary depending on the exact surgery you need will also vary depending on where you live. Costs can range between £500 and £700 and may include the consultation.

If you opt to self-fund you will be offered one of the following:

• An all-inclusive ‘package price’, where you know the full costs before undergoing treatment. Not all consultants and hospitals offer this.
• A ‘fee-per-service’ deal, where you pay for each part of your treatment and the services you use separately. You often will not know the full costs until you receive invoices.

For more information, you can read our guide on self-pay .

Helpful websites

References

Colposcopy. nhs.uk [Last updated 18 Jan 2024]

Colposcopy – StatPearls. ncbi.nlm.nih.gov [Last updated 06 April 2025]