Skip to main content
Black Health logo Black Health
Glossary

Colposcopy

Also known as: Cervical biopsy procedure

Medically reviewed, last updated

A colposcopy is a 15-minute office procedure where a clinician uses a magnifying scope to examine the cervix in detail after an abnormal Pap or HPV result. Small biopsies may be taken. The procedure does not require anesthesia; discomfort is mild and comparable to a Pap.

The access bottleneck after an abnormal screening result is colposcopy follow-up, and Black women have documented lower colposcopy completion rates than white women, contributing to the cervical-cancer mortality disparity. If a Pap returns abnormal, ask explicitly when colposcopy is scheduled and what the next steps are.

Back to glossary

Medical Disclaimer

This glossary entry is for informational and educational purposes only. It is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always consult a qualified healthcare provider with questions about a medical condition.