ABSTRACT
Women with many stages of abnormality are referred for colposcopy. Treatments depend on findings at colposcopy but range from laser ablation or cold coagulation treatment, through laser excision or loop biopsy or hysterectomy for invasive cancer. A colposcopy is a detailed examination of the cervix that allows the colposcopist to see the type and area of abnormality. Direct referral is in place for all grades of smear abnormality requiring colposcopy referral. If human papillomavirus (HPV) is found she will be referred for colposcopy and if HPV is not found she will be returned to routine screening every 3 or 5 years depending on her age. Other referral indications to colposcopy: Most treatment of abnormal cervical cells can be carried out at colposcopy. If it is found, or the screening test does show an abnormality, the patient will be referred again to colposcopy.
