Cervical cancer screening

-Automatic translation

A colposcopy is a microscopic examination of the cervix, performed if abnormal cells are detected in the cervical smear. Abnormal cells are high risk HPV infections and/or changes in cells. Abnormal cells are most often caused by HPV infection (human papilloma virus). Mild pre-stage changes often disappear spontaneously without treatment, and therefore, monitoring after 6-12 months is sufficient. However, if this does not happen, or if there are high-grade abnormal cervical cells in the smear, a colposcopy is required for further diagnosis. During colposcopy, the cervix is examined, and biopsies taken for histological analysis.

How is a colposcopy performed?

A physician performs the examination, which will take about 15-20 minutes. The woman undergoes a routine gynecological examination, the cervix is examined, and samples are taken.

In general, it takes about 2-3 to get the results of a colposcopy. A decision is then made about further follow-up or treatment. Ideally, colposcopy should be performed by those physicians who have received special training.

Referrals to colposcopy

Colposcopes are performed at the Landspítali University Hospital, the Akureyri Hospital, the HVE hospital in Akranes, and at some gynecologists' clinics. The Cancer Screening Coordination Centre and gynecologists send a referral for a colposcopy.

• A referral to Landspítali University Hospital is sent from Heilsugátt

• A referral to Akureyri Hospital must be sent by mail to the Department of Gynecology, Eyrarlandsvegur, 600 Akureyri