Colposcopy examination

[BobbyBobBob]

Hi

My partner had to have a cervical screening test about 6 weeks ago. It came back as though some of the cells were abnormal ( which apparently is quite common) so she had to wait 6 weeks to have a follow up. This follow up was on Monday and the results of that showed some abnormal cells again.

She has now been told she needs a further more in-depth examination called a colposcopy.

It says in the leaflet that it's nothing to worry about and it's standard procedure etc. But I can't help but feel a tad concerned. Is this more in-depth examination still a common thing and what happens if they find something?

Thanks

[DTCwordfan]

my results took about four days in the States, Bobby, but then the "financing" is different through insurance.....and the care was superb.

The point being that, if you can afford it, you may get a faster turn around if you went private on this....and speed as we know is the essence if there was (and probably not), anything wrong.

[boxtops]

If there's anything wrong, the timetabling for dealing with it in the NHS is very rapid these days, DT.

[DTCwordfan]

If there was any delay on the colposcopy, Boxie....that was what I was meaning.....shouldn't be too expensive.

[Barmaid]

Agreed Boxy. I had a lump in the breast a few years back - my goodness, the speed with which things moved was quite remarkable.

[Sqad]

Barmaid....a "lump" and "abnormal cells" are quite different priorities.

[boxtops]

It'll be quick. I have confidence.

[DTCwordfan]

I agree on treatment, its the diagnosis that takes the time and they had a thing on the news on the Beeb (Breakfast Time) last week about how diagnosis is lengthening with the budget restraints......

[Barmaid]

Well that may be Sqad, I also had "abnormal cells" and that was pretty damn quick too (that's how I know about a colposcopy). My experience is that abnormal results have brought a fast and appropriate response. That is only my limited experience though.

[sara3]

actually, if your partner is diagnosed with CIN1 (the least serious of the cervical changes) don't be surprised if they just send her away for 6 months, as this quite often rights itself.

[boxtops]

bobby, this is a good guide with clear pics http://www.patient.co.uk/health/Colposcopy.htm

[boxtops]

It does depend, bobby, on the clinical reason why she has to go for this procedure - and the findings have several grades of urgency - but it looks as if she might wait 2-4 weeks for an appointment. Your GP would know your local referral times.

[BobbyBobBob]

wow, didn't expect this much response. Thanks folks. I'll check the links out later boxtops. I appreciate your help.

I know its early stages and stuff and could be something and nothing but its always a little worrying as you expect it to come back normal 9 times out of 10.

thanks again

[cathfromsaron]

its nothing compared to having kids!

and you get the answer straight away! my 'abnormal cells' were just bubble bath in the smear sample!