HealthCareMagic is now Ask A Doctor - 24x7 | https://www.askadoctor24x7.com

question-icon

What Causes Severe Vaginal Bleeding Post A Colposcopy?

default
Posted on Wed, 13 Jul 2016
Question: I had a colposcopy done wednesday for a pap smear result of ascus. My obgyn took a biopsy and since i have bled a little every day. Mostly brown but also a little pink. For how long might i expect this ?
doctor
Answered by Dr. Jacqueline Brown (34 minutes later)
Brief Answer:
You may bleed for a week or so, depending on how extensive the biopsy

Detailed Answer:
Hello, and I would be happy to answer your question today.

Coloscopy biopsies are normally only a few millimeters in diameter, so the site usually only bleeds for a few days. However, many doctors use a substance that contains iodine during colposcopy, which can linger as a brownish discharge for even a week or two. You can also expect a greater likelihood of spotting if you are close to the time your period is due.

I am sure one of the other doctors explained to you that you should not put anything inside the vagina for at least 2 weeks for the biopsy site to heal. Even when your bleeding stops, you have a scab inside that can start bleeding again if it is dislodged by a tampon. Also avoid high impact physical activity for the first week as well.

If you experience any heavy vaginal bleeding with clots, you should call and notify your healthcare provider. Otherwise, the spotting and brown discharge is normal and may even last a week or two.

I hope I was able to adequately answer your question today and that my advice was helpful. If you need anything further, please do not hesitate to contact me.

Best wishes,

Dr. Brown
Note: For further follow up on related General & Family Physician Click here.

Above answer was peer-reviewed by : Dr. Raju A.T
doctor
Answered by
Dr.
Dr. Jacqueline Brown

OBGYN

Practicing since :1996

Answered : 1425 Questions

premium_optimized

The User accepted the expert's answer

Share on

Get personalised answers from verified doctor in minutes across 80+ specialties

159 Doctors Online

By proceeding, I accept the Terms and Conditions

HCM Blog Instant Access to Doctors
HCM Blog Questions Answered
HCM Blog Satisfaction
What Causes Severe Vaginal Bleeding Post A Colposcopy?

Brief Answer: You may bleed for a week or so, depending on how extensive the biopsy Detailed Answer: Hello, and I would be happy to answer your question today. Coloscopy biopsies are normally only a few millimeters in diameter, so the site usually only bleeds for a few days. However, many doctors use a substance that contains iodine during colposcopy, which can linger as a brownish discharge for even a week or two. You can also expect a greater likelihood of spotting if you are close to the time your period is due. I am sure one of the other doctors explained to you that you should not put anything inside the vagina for at least 2 weeks for the biopsy site to heal. Even when your bleeding stops, you have a scab inside that can start bleeding again if it is dislodged by a tampon. Also avoid high impact physical activity for the first week as well. If you experience any heavy vaginal bleeding with clots, you should call and notify your healthcare provider. Otherwise, the spotting and brown discharge is normal and may even last a week or two. I hope I was able to adequately answer your question today and that my advice was helpful. If you need anything further, please do not hesitate to contact me. Best wishes, Dr. Brown